KOTA KINABALU: The Plantation and Commodities Ministry, in collaboration with the Kota Kinabalu Parliamentary Service Centre, City Hall (DBKK) and JCI Kota Kinabalu, has launched a Used Cooking Oil (UCO) Collection Competition for schools in the city.
Private secretary to the Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister, who is also the Kota Kinabalu parliamentary liaison chief, Kaven Lee Seng Vui, said the programme aims to encourage the collection of used cooking oil among students, teachers and the local community while raising awareness about recycling for environmental sustainability.
He said the initiative is crucial as it reduces pollution, supports the circular economy through biodiesel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production, and provides households with an additional source of income.
Lee added that the practice fosters a green culture, supports sustainable technology, and prevents clogged drains and pollution caused by the disposal of oil into sinks and drains.
He explained that the programme also contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, in line with Malaysia’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
“The competition not only benefits the environment but also teaches young people that what is often seen as waste can hold value, while encouraging cooperation among students, teachers, parents and the wider community in building responsibility, discipline and love for nature,” he said.
The competition, which runs from 28 August to 27 October 2025, is open to all schools in Kota Kinabalu, with cash prizes for both primary and secondary categories, including RM1,000 for first place, RM800 for second place and RM500 for third place.
Private secretary to the Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister, who is also the Kota Kinabalu parliamentary liaison chief, Kaven Lee Seng Vui, said the programme aims to encourage the collection of used cooking oil among students, teachers and the local community while raising awareness about recycling for environmental sustainability.
He said the initiative is crucial as it reduces pollution, supports the circular economy through biodiesel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production, and provides households with an additional source of income.
Lee added that the practice fosters a green culture, supports sustainable technology, and prevents clogged drains and pollution caused by the disposal of oil into sinks and drains.
He explained that the programme also contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, in line with Malaysia’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
“The competition not only benefits the environment but also teaches young people that what is often seen as waste can hold value, while encouraging cooperation among students, teachers, parents and the wider community in building responsibility, discipline and love for nature,” he said.
The competition, which runs from 28 August to 27 October 2025, is open to all schools in Kota Kinabalu, with cash prizes for both primary and secondary categories, including RM1,000 for first place, RM800 for second place and RM500 for third place.
