Evaluating Knowledge, Awareness, and Satisfaction Regarding Solid Waste Management and Associated Health Risks Among Ampang Jaya Residents

Abstract

Introduction: Solid waste management (SWM) poses a global challenge with serious environmental, health and economic impacts, particularly in rapidly urbanizing countries like Malaysia due to rising waste generation, limited landfill capacity, and associated public health risks. Improper waste handling leads to pollution, disease outbreaks, and public dissatisfaction. Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, awareness and satisfaction of residents in Ampang Jaya regarding SWM and the potential health problems from waste generation. Methodology: Conducted in Ampang Jaya, Selangor, this study involved 420 respondents across 42 Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) waste collection zones. A set of well-structured questionnaires in Bahasa Malaysia was adapted from a previous validated study and administered to assess respondents' knowledge, awareness, and satisfaction with solid waste collection performance in their area. Data was analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for descriptive statistics, one-way ANOVA, independent t-tests, and multiple linear regression. Results: Significant demographic differences were observed among respondents, who were generally young, well educated, and had high household incomes. Knowledge of SWM was low (score < 0.5), with educational level being the only sociodemographic factor affecting knowledge (p < 0.05). Most respondents displayed medium awareness (scores ranging 12–55), also influenced solely by educational level (p < 0.05). Satisfaction with SWM showed significant association with age (p < 0.05), and trends indicated consistent satisfaction, likely due to uniform SWM services across the area. Conclusion: Findings from this study can aid local authorities in improving SWM strategies and encourage community involvement in maintaining a cleaner environment.