THE Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has launched Penang’s first-ever drive-thru recycling centre, known as the ‘Drop for Cash’ initiative, at Taman Sri Pinang in Jelutong.
The centre, which was officially unveiled yesterday (Jan 26), aims to encourage recycling by offering cash in exchange for recyclable items.
Residents can now exchange their recyclable materials for cash, with rebates offered for every 3kg of recyclables. The centre is set to begin operations on Feb 1.
Speaking at the launch, MBPP mayor Datuk A. Rajendran highlighted the benefits of the initiative.
“Recyclable items such as aluminium, paper, plastics, and others can be exchanged for cash.
“Payments will be transferred via e-wallets and processed within 12 to 36 hours,” he said.
Rajendran expressed confidence in the centre’s success, noting its strategic location within the Jelutong parliamentary constituency.
“I believe many people will take advantage of this initiative as it is conveniently located near their neighbourhood,” he said.
The centre aligns with MBPP’s goal of improving recycling rates on Penang island.
In 2024, the island achieved a recycling rate of 41.78%, surpassing the national average of 35.38%. Rajendran expects the rate to improve further with initiatives like this.
To participate, members of the public can scan a QR code at the centre to obtain a receipt or sticker. This receipt must be attached to the recyclable items, and cash rebates will then be credited to their e-wallets within 12 to 36 hours.
“We believe this will encourage proper disposal of recyclable items,” Rajendran added.
Penang Social Development, Welfare and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim commended MBPP for its efforts in promoting environmental sustainability.
“This recycling centre will not only benefit the community environmentally but also foster better relationships among neighbours,” she said.
Lim stressed the importance of such initiatives to reduce the burden on the Pulau Burong landfill in the future.
Story by Edmund Lee