Coming prepared: Shoppers using their reusable bag to carry their groceries at a supermarket in George Town, Penang. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
GEORGE TOWN: Penang aims to phase out plastic foodware such as straws, cutlery and packaging at wet markets and hawker centres.
Penang Green Council (PGC) general manager Josephine Tan said the state government is exploring sustainable packaging alternatives, particularly for hawkers and wet market traders, to support the transition.
She said it was vital to adopt a “3A concept” – accessible, affordable and available – when introducing biodegradable and eco-friendly packaging solutions to the businesses.
For now, the “No Plastic Bag 2.0 campaign” does not apply to hawkers, wet market traders or stand-alone businesses.
Tan also highlighted the need to educate consumers to bring their own bags or containers while grocery shopping or for takeaways.
“With the support of the Malaysia Plastics Sustainability Roadmap 2021–2030, we’re optimistic that these collective efforts will help shift public mindset and significantly reduce reliance on single-use plastics.
“If everyone adopts this habit, plastic bag usage will gradually decline. Ultimately, it comes down to demand and supply,” she said.
Tan added that a series of awareness campaigns are being planned, including targeted outreach to hawkers and wet market traders.
“One positive example is the Medan Renong Food Court, a pilot project by the Penang Island City Council, which has successfully achieved zero plastic usage.
“While there are challenges, the transition can be implemented in phases with the support of business owners and the public.”
Based on recent data and surveys, Tan said the No Plastic Bag 2.0 campaign has led to encouraging progress, with more consumers opting for reusable bags and businesses increasingly offering greener alternatives.
She also noted a steady rise in environmental awareness.
“Consumer demand for plastic bags dropped by 78% from 2020 to 2021, followed by a further 28% reduction from 2021 to 2022.”
Tan said small incentives, such as discounts for customers who bring their own reusable bags, could further motivate the public to adopt sustainable habits.
“We aim to focus on communication, education and public awareness, particularly among the younger generation, because lasting change begins when good habits are formed early,” she said.
Tan also stressed the importance of consistent outreach efforts to maintain momentum.
“Continuous awareness is key, which is why PGC organises a series of eco-talks and community programmes throughout the year.
“We are also organising zero-waste events, involving schools in sustainability efforts, and introducing simple reward systems to encourage plastic-free practices.”
Penang introduced a daily no-plastic-bag campaign starting March 1, compelling consumers to use only reusable bags for their purchases.
The campaign, known as “No Plastic Bag 2.0,” involves supermarkets, department and convenience stores, hypermarkets, fast food restaurants, petrol station convenience stores, retail chains, pharmacies, as well as other business premises.
