KUALA LUMPUR — Commuters at selected Light Rail Transit (LRT) stations can now recycle used bottles and cans conveniently while on the move, following the rollout of Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) by Prasarana Malaysia Bhd (Prasarana).
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High-traffic stations such as Masjid Jamek and KLCC were selected for the initial phase due to their strategic locations and high passenger volumes, making them ideal sites to encourage public participation in recycling.
Prasarana Group Chief Health, Safety, Security, Environment and Sustainable Development Officer Idzqandar Abu Bakar said smart recycling technology plays an important role in encouraging public participation.
“The installation of RVMs at prominent LRT stations offers passengers a recycling solution that is easy to use, technologically advanced and incentive-driven,” he said at the launch today.
“This approach goes beyond merely providing facilities, as it leverages smart technology and reward systems to encourage positive behavioural change.
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Also present at the launch were Prasarana Integrated Development Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Syed Redza Algadrie and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) Health and Environment Department director Dr Nor Halizam Ismail.
Idzqandar said that by integrating recycling facilities into busy transit hubs, Prasarana aims to normalise recycling habits among commuters while reinforcing the role of public transport in supporting sustainable urban living.
Among the machines introduced is Klean, an artificial intelligence-based RVM that accepts plastic bottles and aluminium cans. Users earn points through the Klean mobile application, which can be redeemed for vouchers from partner merchants such as Zus Coffee, Grab and Jaya Grocer.
Another machine, the Atlas Ecopod, recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s thinnest recycling machine, allows users to recycle beverage containers and receive instant digital rewards.
Both machines are equipped with data-tracking systems that record user participation and the volume of recyclables collected. Idzqandar noted that the public response has been encouraging, with some machines reaching full capacity within two to three days of installation.
To date, 16 RVM units have been installed at Prasarana-operated facilities, including Menara Prasarana and Rapid Bus Sdn Bhd headquarters, with plans to expand the initiative further through partnerships and sponsorships.
Meanwhile, Dr Nor Halizam welcomed the initiative, saying it aligns with national efforts to increase recycling rates under the 12th Malaysia Plan. She added that such innovations help reduce mixed waste and make recycling more accessible and convenient for the public.
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- NST
