'You gave him warmth & dignity': Brother of late S'pore man who had cerebral palsy gets letter from President Tharman

Nine-year-old Gregory Imran Zahin has taken up the hobby of collecting empty cans and plastic bottles for recycling under Singapore's latest Beverage Container Return Scheme (BCRS). His father, Muhammad Zahin, explained that Gregory first learned about recycling and the BCRS at school. He became particularly interested after noticing the BCRS logo on a bottle for the first time. This sparked the family to start collecting used bottles and cans, which they could recycle properly.

The family recently visited a Return Right machine to recycle their containers, and Muhammad documented the experience on TikTok. Two months ago, Gregory started collecting around 60 plastic bottles and 140 cans, mostly from their home or from meals outside. Gregory and his younger siblings occasionally pick up bottles and cans left on the ground, but they don't actively seek them out.

During a visit to a full BCRS machine, Gregory carried four large bags of empty plastic bottles, while one of his siblings carried a cardboard box with cans. After the first attempt was unsuccessful, they returned a few days later and successfully recycled their collection. Gregory earned approximately S$20 from the bottles and cans he returned, which he was very happy about as it contributed to his savings.

Gregory's parents expressed pride in him and mentioned that his enthusiasm inspired the whole family, including siblings and cousins, to start recycling. Gregory's goal is to continue recycling regularly and make it a habit. He also plans to combine his interest in recycling with another hobby. During their next shore fishing trip, Gregory hopes to bring rubbish bags to help clean up the beach while enjoying fishing.

His ultimate aim, as shared by his father, is to help clean up the beach and maintain a clean environment for others.