Small steps, big impact: (From left) May Lim, Ch’ng Guat Her, Gan Goet Hwa, Hannah Lim and Wendy Lim, showing the tiffin boxes they received to encourage the use of reusable food containers and reduce dependence on plastic during a campaign in City Park, Penang. — LIM BENG TATT/The Star
GEORGE TOWN: Tiffin carriers have long been seen as symbols of sustainability.
In India, they are called dabba, and the dabbawalas – food deliverers who use tiffin carriers – are legend.
Now, the tiffin carrier has become part of a dance routine here, with a local dance group using it to promote eco-conscious living.
With the multi-tiered meal boxes in hand, the performers have turned their passion into purpose – encouraging the use of reusable containers and discouraging single-use plastics.
The initiative, jointly organised by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and the Penang Mutiara Women’s Organisation, saw tiffin carriers distributed to local dance groups and non-profit associations to help reduce reliance on disposable plastic.
For seasoned dance instructor Eddie Lim, 63, the movement goes beyond choreography.
“We want our dance to carry a message about sustainability and responsibility.
“We have used the tiffin boxes in two routines so far and the reception has been great.
“We hope this small step will inspire more people to make eco-friendly choices in their daily lives,” said Lim during the event at City Park yesterday.
Lim’s group, which has over 300 active members, received 60 tiffin boxes. He noted that an increasing number of members are embracing the use of tiffin carriers, motivated not only by convenience but also by a growing awareness of environmental issues.
The event saw participation from 10 other grassroots and civil society organisations as well, each receiving a pair of tiffin boxes.
Among them was Mak Wan Bee Majid, 66, who leads a dance group of nearly 100 members.
“In Penang, many of us lead fast-paced and active lives where buying food on the go is common.
“But if each of us stops using plastic containers for even one meal a day, imagine the difference we can make. It’s a small habit with a big impact.
“Loving the environment starts with these everyday choices and we’re proud to be part of this change,” she said.
MBPP mayor Datuk A. Rajendran said Penang’s local government has long championed eco-conscious living.
“This is a global challenge and we need everyone’s effort.
“In Penang, our no-plastic-bag campaign began in 2009 – starting only on Mondays and now enforced daily.
“These efforts are not just policies; we hope they evolve into habits and eventually, a way of life,” he said.
Also at the event were Penang Mutiara Women’s Organisation chairman Tan Lean Kee and MBPP Public Education sub-committee chairman Benji Ang Ming Quan, who jointly handed over the tiffin boxes to the recipients.
