Simple habits that bring lasting benefits

PETALING JAYA: From bringing their own bags on grocery runs to opting for reusable food containers for takeaways, many Malaysians are doing their bit to help save the environment.

They are also driven by another big reason – keeping expenditure down, as they are charged an extra fee if they ask for plastic bags.

Tutor Suzanna Hamdan, 56, keeps grocery bags in her family car to ensure no one has to pay extra for plastic bags.

“We have at least three bags in the car. Each cost less than RM5, which is quite a good deal as it is durable. It is also more secure and can fit more items compared to plastic bags given by stores,” she said, adding that her family had been using grocery bags since 2018.

Housewife Caryn Chan began carrying her own shopping bags ever since charges were imposed on single-use plastic bags.

“It’s not something difficult to do. Initially, it needed some getting used to but after a while, it became a habit,” she said.

Freelancer Iylia Batrisyia Iskandar, 26, said carrying tote bags was now a routine.

“Totes are also fashionable and blend in nicely with whatever outfit I choose on a particular day,” she said.

Iylia Batrisyia goes the extra mile – she even brings a metal straw to use whenever she orders drinks.