Food outlets still giving out plastic straws, says Selangor Environment Dept

PETALING JAYA: There is still a lack of awareness on the "no plastic straw" policy among food traders, says Selangor Environment, Green Technology and Consumer Affairs committee chairman Hee Loy Sian.

"Since we launched the policy on July 1, I still find food outlets readily giving out straws. We will print posters and distribute them to increase awareness about this," he said.

He was speaking to the media after launching the Lepak in Green programme at the Main Place Mall in USJ 21, Subang Jaya.

Also at the launch were Main Place Mall management director Woo May Foong, Subang Jaya assemblyman Michelle Ng and Subang Jaya Municipal Council (MPSJ) deputy president Mohd Zulkarnain Che Ali.

Hee added that similar to the state government's previous policy on no plastic bags, it will take time for the public to get used to the idea of no plastic straws.

"Based on the latest survey done by the Merdeka Centre, almost 76% of Selangor residents supported the "no plastic bag" campaign.

"I believe the public will get used to it by 2025, as per our six-year plan towards a zero straw policy in Selangor by then," he said.

The Lepak in Green programme was co-organised by the Main Place Mall and the council via its Licensing Department.

According to MPSJ Corporate and Strategic Management Department deputy director Azfarizal Abdul Rashid, Main Place is the first mall in the municipality that has heeded the state government's call to ensure all food premises within its management to follow the 'no plastic straw' policy.

The council had previously introduced the Kempen Bebas Straw ("no plastic straw" campaign) at the Ramadan bazaar in May.

"Following the positive feedback, MPSJ will expand the campaign to pasar malam and pasar pagi within the municipality with the cooperation of the Traders Coordinator and Action Committee (JSP)," he said.

To introduce shoppers on the concept of going green, Main Place Mall has prepared activities such as Green Market, workshops, CSR activities, and Speak Up Competition, which encourages contestants to voice out their thoughts and ideas about the environment.

In addition, shoppers are encouraged to bring their used plastic bags in exchange for a Main Place eco-friendly bag.

For details, visit www.mainplace.com.my/index