MIRI: The Miri Secondhand Dealers and Recyclers Association has launched an ambitious effort to make it into the Guinness Book of World Records.
The project targets the collection of 2,000 kilograms of EcoBricks – plastic bottles filled with compacted, non-biodegradable waste – within a 24-hour period.
As of Saturday morning, the organisers had already amassed an impressive 2,800 kilograms of EcoBricks, demonstrating strong support from the local community.
The final result of the attempt to record the biggest donation of eco-bricks in 24 hours is expected to be announced on Sunday (Jan 12).
The attempt, which began Saturday (Jan 11), at Miri Outdoor Stadium, has been two years in the making.
Sarawak’s Transport Minister, Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, commended the initiative, describing it as a milestone event for the city.
“This is a golden opportunity for Miri to showcase to the world our commitment to sustainability. Achieving this Guinness World Record will have long-lasting benefits for the community and cement our status as a leader in environmental consciousness,” he said.
This is not the first notable achievement of the EcoBrick initiative.
In 2023, the project was recognised in the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) for collecting 20,000 EcoBricks, a feat accomplished in collaboration with Curtin University Malaysia.
This achievement came nearly two years after the project was first launched and highlighted the community’s dedication to sustainable practices.
If successful, this latest endeavour will further bolster Miri’s global standing, joining its two existing Unesco recognitions – Mulu National Park and Niah Nature Park – to make it one of Malaysia’s few cities with three prestigious international accolades.
Lee also highlighted the potential ripple effects of the EcoBrick initiative, envisioning the establishment of an EcoPark constructed from recycled materials.
“Such a park could serve as an educational hub promoting recycling, sustainability, and environmental consciousness while attracting visitors and contributing to Miri’s long-term appeal,” he remarked.
“I hope we can successfully achieve this Guinness World Record and make Miri proud, furthering our journey to become a green and sustainable city.”
Also present at the event were Datuk Sebastian Ting, Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts and Miri Mayor Adam Yii.
