KARUNG GUNI Meaning and
Definition
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Karung guni is a localized and colloquial term used in Singapore and Malaysia, which refers to a specific type of small-scale recycling trader or waste collector. The term "karung guni" originated from Malay, where "karung" means sack or bag, and "guni" refers to used or scrap items. Together, the term denotes an individual or group of people who primarily collect and buy various types of used or unwanted goods, particularly in the form of household items, clothing, electrical appliances, and other recyclable materials.
Traditionally, karung guni collectors roam residential areas or visit homes on a regular basis, often pushing carts or using motorcycles to transport their wares. They offer to buy usable or recyclable items from homeowners, paying a small amount usually determined by weight or quality. These collectors act as an important link between individuals disposing of their unwanted possessions and industries that engage in recycling or repurposing these items.
In recent times, with the rapid development of waste management systems and the introduction of larger-scale recycling initiatives, the role of karung guni collectors has evolved. While they still provide a valuable service in recycling and waste management, their significance has grown beyond individual collections. Today, they often collaborate with recycling companies and government agencies to facilitate the segregation and disposal of different waste categories in a community.
The term "karung guni" has become synonymous with recycling and resource recovery, symbolizing the localized recycling economy that contributes to minimizing waste and the promotion of sustainable practices.
Etymology of KARUNG GUNI
The word "karung guni" is derived from two languages: Hokkien and Malay.
In the Hokkien dialect, "karung" (粿) means a sack or bag made of cloth. It refers to a large sack used by peddlers and traders to carry various items.
The word "guni" is derived from the Malay word "gunny", which means coarse, heavy-duty sackcloth. It is commonly used to refer to the gunny sacks commonly used for transporting goods.
When combined, "karung guni" refers to a person who collects unwanted and used items, usually by going door-to-door, and carries them in a sack to be recycled or resold. This term is primarily used in Singapore and Malaysia.
