GEORGE TOWN: The Northern Indian Recycling Traders Welfare Association has asked the government to allow recycling operators to reopen for business during the second phase of the National Recovery Plan (NRP).

       The Penang-based group said recycling traders and plant owners had to bear rental costs, loan repayments, salaries and utility bills for the past one month despite not operating.

       Its chairman Datuk S. Parthiban said most of its members would not be able to sustain their operating cost if they were not allowed to resume their business soon.

       He said although the association was aware that the purpose of the lockdown was to curb Covid-19, it hoped that the government could reconsider allowing recycling businesses under Phase Two of the NRP.

       Under the NRP, recycling operators are only to resume operations in Phase Three.

       He said there were more than 150 companies in the northern region and 1,500 local workers in the scrap metal and recycling industry.

       “This may lead to worker retrenchment.

       “With most of the workers from the B40 group, they will be the most affected as their salary is based on selling recyclables daily,” he told reporters recently.

       Despite its members’ difficulties, the association recently distributed food packs to 300 needy families.

       “Even though our business is affected, we are still concerned for the well-being of the community, especially those from the needy group,” he added.

       Housewife Loo Chong Lin, 41, said the practice of managing household waste and recycling still goes on for her family.

       Loo, who lives in a condominium in Gelugor, said there were designated recycling corners on each floor for residents to leave their recyclables.

       “Even though we stay home most of the time, we do order takeaways and that is where the trash usually comes from.

       “So, we recycle diligently and if we ever go out to buy food, we always bring our own containers,” she added.

       Penang Island City Council urban services department acting director Xavier Sebastian said while many private recycling companies were closed during this period, council services went on as usual.

       “This includes the collection of recycling waste and trash so there should be no problem for households to continue segregating and recycling their waste.

       “Every Saturday, we have assigned contractors to go around in their lorries to collect recyclables.

       “Even though our contractors only make their rounds on Saturdays, anyone can contact us if they have recyclables and we can arrange for special trips depending on the (circumstances),” he added.

       Penang Green Council general manager Josephine Tan said it advised the public to keep their recyclables at home during this period if there were only a little.

       “For those who need to send their items to recycling centres, they can do so when restrictions are lifted.

       “Until then, we hope households can ensure their recyclables are washed, cleaned and kept in a dry place.

       “For those with polyethylene terephthalate or plastic waste, we advise them to upcycle it,” she added.