Perak must implement a “No Plastic Bag Every Day” campaign across the state as soon as possible, following Penang government’s actions starting March.
The campaign in Penang starts with the free distribution of reusable bags to encourage their use and help the public switch to more sustainable practices.
Its government is also enacting a comprehensive framework to gradually eliminate not only plastic bags but also single-use plastics throughout the state.
I strongly urge Perak government to extend the ban on single-use plastics to all types of businesses, especially among hawkers and small traders.
The extension of this ban to such small businesses in addition to large retailers and franchises is necessary to ensure efforts to end plastic bags’ usage are truly successful.
This single-use plastics ban must be strictly enforced.
Initiatives that prohibit daily distribution and use of plastic bags are the only way to quickly eradicate plastic pollution.
It can also drastically reduce illegal dumping in public places throughout Perak.
This in turn will create a more positive image and attract more tourists, thus contributing to the state’s economic growth.
I was rudely reminded of the severe levels of plastic pollution and rubbish dumping inherent in our society when I saw the huge amounts of rubbish strewn around the roll-on roll-off bin at Buntong wet market in Ipoh.
This never-ending problem will be drastically reduced if the Perak government bans the use of plastic bags immediately.
ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS RESIDENT
Ipoh, Perak
