Prepping ahead of full plastic straw ban in 2020

Consumers who prefer to use straws for their drinks have the option to buy a straw set such as this which comes with straws of different sizes and a brush for cleaning. These straws are made of stainless steel and glass.

THE ban on plastic straws in the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan from Jan 1 next year received mixed views from the public.

Comments from netizens showed that many were for it for the greater good of the environment but some raised their concerns on convenience, cost and hygiene.

Joon Yeong Leong, who lauded the move, said many businesses in Australia were practising the no-plastic straw policy to eliminate the use of plastics.

“Effort is also in place to reduce the waste produced by biodegradable products. Just bring your own cups and straws.

“Maybe Malaysia should take the initiative for alternative innovation,” he said.

Dr Ahneez Abdul Hameed, 35, said she carries a stainless steel straw set when she goes out.

“The set comes with one regular-sized straw and a bigger one for smoothies. The set comes with a brush, so I can rinse immediately after use and wash it thoroughly once at home.

“I bought the set from a seller on Facebook in February. It comes in a cloth pouch.

“I started playing a part to reduce the use of plastic from December last year. Initially I used straws made of bamboo. I have been bringing my own containers for take-outs since 2014.

“I also have a glass straw at home. I am contemplating getting a bamboo cutlery set too,” she said.

Anas Azmi said he had used a paper straw while in Hong Kong and had no complaints.

“It was surprisingly durable,” he said.

Meanwhile, Irene Heng said businesses should provide alternative solutions for customers.

“Customers are paying for the drink, it is the business operators’ responsibility to serve their customers properly,” she said.

Timothy Wong feared the move would increase the price of drinks.

“If shops were to provide biodegradable bamboo or steel straws to customers, inevitably the price of drinks will go up. Some drinks such as bubble tea, milk shakes and floats require straws,” he said.

Angela Zhi said that although the move was eco-friendly, the total ban was not ideal as those who were ill would need a straw to drink better.

Andie Lim raised the hygiene aspect and said there may be food, drink and lipstick stains after using recyclable straws.

“Although the glasses are washed, the rim is often not thoroughly cleaned. Just highlighting some potential shortfalls,” he said.

A search online revealed that one can easily purchase a reusable alternative to plastic straws. Most are made of stainless steel, bamboo, silicone and glass.

These straws come in different sizes including ones that are suitable for ice-blended drinks and bubble tea. A casing or pouch, as well as brush is often included for cleaning and ease of storage.

There are also foldable and collapsible stainless steel straws that come in small casings which can fit in the pocket.

A check on food outlets in the Klang Valley showed some operators had taken their own initiative to stop distributing plastic straws, while some only provided straws upon request.

Federal Territories Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Adnan Mohd Ikhsan said business operators that offered plastic straws to customers for medical reasons would not be penalised.

He also said that although the ban was included as a requirement in the business licence for next year, full enforcement of the ban on plastic straws would only take place from Jan 1, 2020.

“Awareness campaigns on the negative effects of plastic straw usage will go on until the end of next year.

“Straws made from other biodegradable material or paper can be used as a replacement.

“I hope consumers will educate themselves to limit the use of conventional plastic to preserve the environment,” he said.

The ban on plastic straw follows the ban on plastic bag and polystyrene food packaging, which started in September last year.