Baby steps to living sustainably in the Klang Valley: A guide

Photo: Trash4Cash/Facebook
Photo: Trash4Cash/Facebook

Let’s face it. Living sustainably is a privilege that is unattainable for many of us in Malaysia due to the rising cost of living. Not everyone can afford to lead a vegan lifestyle or do more environmentally friendly things simply because our surroundings do not permit it. 

However, if we have the means and the privilege, we should at least attempt to be kinder to the earth. Small habits may make a big difference in our daily lives.

Check out this list we compiled for residents living in the Klang Valley to kickstart your be-kinder-to-the-earth journey. In curating this list, we considered the current economic situation and ensured that these habits wouldn’t break the bank, if anything, it might add some to your bank account. 


Trash4Cash

Trash4Cash (T4C) is a mobile application that allows you to hire professionals to pick up and remove domestic and non-hazardous rubbish from your homes, businesses, and other locations.

In order to do this, just simply download their app on your Google Play Store and wait for a cute pink truck to arrive at your doorstep to weigh, collect and pay you for your recyclable trash.

You can also check the price of recyclable materials directly on the app. It is recommended that users separate their items accordingly.

Unfortunately, the app is not available for iOS users, however, you can check out their Facebook page for more information.


Recycle used cooking oil with Arus Oil

Used cooking oil is a headache to get rid of. Most of the time, it either ends up in the trash or clogs up our pipes.

However, in case you did not know, used cooking oil can be turned into biodiesel, household cleaning soaps, including candles.

With Arus Oil, you can recycle your used cooking oil and earn at the same time. You may download their app on the Google Play Store or App Store to find out more. The platform offers door-to-door collection for RM1.30 – RM2.20 used cooking oil per kg, at a minimum of 5kg.

Contact +60137311007 or visit their website for more information.


Switch to reusable shopping bags with The Asli Co.

Quit paying for plastic bags at grocery stores because we know that your Ikea plastic bag rack has been filled to the brink and FYI, RM0.20 x 5 is already a ringgit. 

Instead, switch it up with this eco-friendly shopping bag made by a Kak Yanie, an Orang Asli woman from the Jakun Tribe in Kampung Bukit Serak, Pahang. 
The Asli co. features items made by Orang Asli mothers from all over Malaysia. Get that shopping bag here for RM25.


Refill groceries with the A Bit Less store

Time to put your mother’s century-old Tupperware containers to good use with the A Bit Less store! 

A Bit Less sells food items in bulk and package-free so that customers can purchase the amount they need. At this store, you can buy grains, soaps, laundry detergent, and even pet food according to whatever quantity you like. 

All you need to do is bring your own containers to store these products. 

The store is located at 17, Jalan Ambong 3, Kepong Baru, Kuala Lumpur. For more information, you may visit their website.


Get cleaning and cosmetics products at Liquid Etc. 

Want non-toxic, waste-free cleaning and cosmetics products with zero packaging? Liquid Etc is the place to go. The business, the first of its type in Klang, sells home products in liquid form that are safe to use around kids and pets.

The best part? You don’t need to leave your house! Simply schedule an appointment on their website and they will arrive at your doorstep with their roving refillery! 

They cover most major areas in Klang Valley, including but not limited to Klang, Shah Alam, Subang Jaya, Petaling Jaya, and Kuala Lumpur. You can drop them a message at +6017348672 to check if their Roving Refillery visits your area.


Let Senheng take care of your electronic waste! 

Did you know that electronic waste that is not disposed of properly is considered hazardous because it contains metals and other materials that can harm humans and the environment? Yeah. So don’t do that. 

Instead, let Senheng handle your electronic items that don’t work anymore, you’ll even be rewarded with cash vouchers! 

If your items are too big (washing machine, refrigerator, TV etc), the store can arrange for a free collection right at your doorstep. Find out more about this initiative here or call them at 03-92814040.

If you have other suggestions on how one can live more sustainably in Klang Valley while being economical, drop us a comment or message on Facebook!



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