Re-Evaluation of Local Community Participation in Waste Management in Malaysia: Primary Collection Scheme

Abstract

Local community participation is crucial in sustainable waste management, particularly at the initial stage of collection from the source. This study re-evaluates local community participation in the Primary Collection Scheme (PCS) in Taman Guru and Taman Seri, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia. The re-evaluation aims to reassess the role of urban authorities in fully engaging community participation in the PCS, as well as the community's role as managers of the scheme, as a strategic step to strengthen program sustainability and encourage collective involvement in maintaining a shared environment. Data were collected qualitatively through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), and policy documents and relevant literature. Thematic analysis and triangulation were employed to enhance the validity of the findings. The study finds that environmental awareness, a culture of cooperation, and local leadership strongly influence program success. Community networks facilitate daily collective waste collection. The findings highlight the need to strengthen community-based waste management and policy support for local social capacities to manage waste and maintain urban cleanliness.