Selangor Journal: Step up efforts towards SDGs, exco urges local authorities

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KLANG, Dec 21 — State executive councillor for local government Dato’ Ng Suee Lim has challenged all local authorities in Selangor to step up their efforts in achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs).

This is pertinent to ensure a greener future, he said in his officiating speech at the Klang Municipal Council (MPK) Sustainable Community Awards 2023 at KSL Esplanade Hotel, here, yesterday.

“I really hope that MPK and all stakeholders can maintain their proactive and dynamic endeavours to carry forward sustainable development programmes and projects that align with the global objectives, directions, and targets of the SDGs.

“I look forward to the future plans of MPK that are in line with SDG 17 on partnerships for the goals,” he said, referring to goal number 17 of the SDG on the importance of strengthening the means of implementation and revitalising the global partnership for sustainable development.

Ng said the state government has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the green agenda with the launch of the Green Technology Small Grant (GKTH) and Environmental Small Grant (GKAS) initiatives under the Environment, Climate Change and Green Technology Committee earlier this year.

These grants, he pointed out, will be directed to the community via local organisations and associations, in a bid to address environmental issues, promote the use of green technology and increase public awareness on the importance of preserving the environment.

“The programme aims to empower communities within organisations and associations by providing funding opportunities for innovative green technology projects, aligning with SDG 13 objectives.

“SDG 13 emphasises the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance disaster resilience, and integrate climate change strategies into the national planning.

“By achieving these goals, it is hoped we can create a world that is more sustainable and resilient to climate change,” he said.

At the ceremony yesterday, a total of 150 awards were presented for various categories, including Clean Public Toilet (Gas Station), Residential Housing Category for Recycling, Best Strata Community (Documentation), and Cleanest Eatery Premises.

The recipient of the Cleanest Eatery Premises award, E. Arulsiva, 46, who is the owner of an Indian restaurant in Bandaraya Klang, attributed his success to his keen observation of the shortcomings of other restaurant owners.

He emphasised the importance of maintaining hygiene standards, noting instances where some owners neglect certain crucial aspects like wearing face masks and caps, and maintaining toilet cleanliness.

“To avoid making the same mistakes, I put myself in my customers’ shoes when I first became a restaurant owner,” he said, recalling his venture into the industry over a year ago.

“Additionally, I prioritise the hygiene of my staff, regardless if they are locals or foreigners. I made their cleanliness, including hair and nails, a top priority.”

Arulsiva said maintaining a clean restaurant is more important for him than making money, and that he would always prioritise the well-being of his customers over profitability.

“We don’t want to get any complaints, like customers experiencing diarrhoea or other related issues, after consuming our food,” he said.