KULAI: Industry players are encouraged to use green technology and recycled materials that could help reduce carbon emissions.

       Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba said the government was committed to ensuring sustainability, recycling and increased use of renewable energy in industry.

       "We encourage the use of new technology that could help reduce waste and ultimately reduce the amount of rubbish thrown into our landfills.

       "We welcome technologies from countries such as Japan and Austria that could allow us to further improve our recycling industry.

       "As such, the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (Mosti) will be working closely with the International Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) and Technology Development Corporation (MTDC) to ensure the sustainability of such industries," he said.

       Dr Adham was speaking to the press after attending the signing of an agreement between Japanese company Hiroyuki Industries (M) Sdn Bhd and Austrian company Starlinger & Co Gesellschaft here on Sunday (Nov 14).

       He noted that the Malaysia-based Hiroyuki Industries (M) Sdn Bhd was the first company in Asean that produced food-grade high-quality recycled polyethylene terephthalate or rPET resins.

       He said that the rPET resins, which were made from recycled bottles, could help reduce waste in the country.

       "Apart from producing rPET resins, the company is also encouraging the habit of recycling in schools through its engagements with about 60 schools in Johor.

       "This could further cultivate the habit of recycling among the public," he said.

       Earlier in his speech, Dr Adham said Mosti aimed to turn Malaysia into a high-income, sustainable and inclusive economy by the year 2030.

       "In order to do this, we must emphasise on innovation and utilise recycled materials such as rPET resins on a commercial scale.

       "Mosti encourages industry players to transition towards green products such as rPET resins to reduce carbon emission," he said.

       He noted that rPET resin could reduce carbon dioxide emission significantly compared to virgin materials.

       Also present at the event were Hiroyuki Industries (M) Sdn Bhd managing director Nakata Hiroyuki and Austria's Kuala Lumpur commercial counsellor and head of Advantage Austria Reinhart Zimmermann.