Kilang ReRoot

Brunei Darussalam, 2021

Kilang ReRoot aims to tackle food waste using the three pillars of sustainability: reducing food waste (environment) by involving multiple sectors of the Bruneian community (society) and creating opportunities for local businesses through food upcycling projects (economy). The project focuses on efficient management in every stage of the food cycle, emphasising on waste recovery to prevent food waste from being dumped in landfills. Project plan begins from the grassroot level by raising awareness, introducing new ways to adapt to a zero-waste lifestyle, continuous engagement with the public, and eventually building a community that strives towards sustainable and zero-waste living.

A Story of Community, Creativity, and Change

In the heart of Brunei Darussalam, a small but passionate team embarked on a mission that would resonate with the community and inspire change. Kilang ReRoot, a project born out of necessity and a deep love for the environment, set out to tackle one of the most pressing issues of our time: food waste. With a focus on sustainability, community engagement, and economic opportunity, Kilang ReRoot has become a beacon of hope and innovation in the region.

The Birth of a Movement

The story of Kilang ReRoot began in 2020, when Brunei was reported to be the highest waste generator in ASEAN, with a staggering 37% of that waste being food. Local supermarkets revealed that $1000 worth of rotten produce was discarded monthly. These alarming statistics sparked a fire within the team, driving them to become part of the solution.

Kilang ReRoot’s mission was clear: to promote eco-friendly local products and sustainable living in Brunei by raising awareness about food production, packaging, consumption, and waste recovery. The project aimed to create a dynamic and innovative community that minimized food waste, upcycled food produce into new products, and adopted sustainable practices in daily life.

Building a Community of Change

From the grassroots level, Kilang ReRoot began its journey by engaging with the Bruneian community. The team understood that change starts with awareness, so they focused on educating the public about the importance of reducing food waste. They introduced new ways to adapt to a zero-waste lifestyle, continuously engaging with the public to build a community striving towards sustainable and zero-waste living.

The support from YSEALI Seeds played a crucial role in Kilang ReRoot’s success. With the funds and guidance provided, the team was able to kickstart their project, plan and execute their initiatives, and expand their network with other YSEALI Seeds recipients. This support helped them fine-tune their ideas and reach a wider audience.

Achievements and Impact

Kilang ReRoot’s journey has been marked by significant achievements and impactful collaborations. The team discovered and engaged with like-minded NGOs and local businesses working on zero-waste initiatives in the country. They were invited to several Eco Festival and Zero Waste Market events as exhibitors, sharing their work on food waste reduction and gaining exposure to a broader audience.

One of their most successful initiatives was organizing a macrame bag workshop, which garnered significant attention and recognition. This workshop not only showcased their commitment to sustainability but also highlighted the creativity and innovation that Kilang ReRoot brings to the table.

The project also embraced the power of social media to spread their message. Through Instagram takeovers, the team shared kitchen hacks and challenges to reduce food waste. This interactive approach not only educated their audience but also allowed them to learn from their followers, creating a community of shared knowledge and passion.

Lessons Learned and Future Aspirations

Throughout their journey, Kilang ReRoot learned valuable lessons about the importance of creativity and innovation in addressing food waste. They discovered that while many Bruneians were unaware of the extent of food waste, there was a genuine interest in learning about the issue. This realization motivated the team to continue finding new and engaging ways to deliver their message, using videos and interactive tools to capture the public’s attention.

Looking to the future, Kilang ReRoot aspires to provide a platform for Bruneians to discuss sustainable lifestyles and going green. They hope to inspire more individuals and organizations to join their cause, creating a ripple effect that will lead to a healthier and more sustainable Brunei.

A Call to Action for Youth Leaders

Kilang ReRoot’s story is a testament to the power of community, creativity, and determination. It serves as an inspiration for youth leaders and future applicants who are passionate about making a difference. By focusing on sustainability, engaging with the community, and embracing innovation, Kilang ReRoot has shown that change is possible, even in the face of daunting challenges.

As we look towards the future, let Kilang ReRoot’s journey inspire us to take action, to be bold in our ideas, and to work together towards a more sustainable world. The path may not always be easy, but with passion and perseverance, we can create a brighter future for generations to come.

Join the Movement

Join the ranks of inspiring youth leaders like those behind Kilang ReRoot by applying for YSEALI Seeds for the Future 2025. Kilang ReRoot has shown that passion, community engagement, and innovative ideas can tackle significant challenges like food waste in Brunei. With support from YSEALI Seeds, they transformed local waste management practices and opened new opportunities for economic growth through sustainability. Your project could be next to make such a meaningful impact. Don’t just stand on the sidelines—lead your community towards a sustainable future. Applications for YSEALI Seeds for the Future 2025 are now open. Seize this opportunity to bring your ideas to life with the funding and support needed to make lasting change. Whether you’re passionate about the environment, community development, or innovative economic practices, YSEALI Seeds can help you reach your goals. Apply today and begin your journey towards impactful, sustainable change.