GEORGE TOWN: Enforcement of the No Single-Use Plastic (NSUP) initiative, which will take effect on Sept 1, will only apply to selected categories of premises under a phased implementation of "GP Plastic Bag Only", said Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo.
The Penang state housing and environment committee chairman said the move was part of efforts to ensure a smooth transition towards reducing plastic dependency without disrupting daily business operations.
“The enforcement on Sept 1 will only apply to selected categories of premises under the phased implementation framework,” he said during a press conference at the state assembly.
He said the categories involved include hypermarkets, supermarkets, department stores, convenience stores, fast food outlets, petrol station convenience stores, chain stores, pharmacies and clinics, while additional categories would be introduced gradually.
Sundarajoo said hawkers and wet markets are exempted from the initial phase, taking into account operational challenges in handling wet and fresh goods, with suitable alternatives still under study.
“The exemption for hawkers and wet markets is necessary as practical alternatives are still being assessed,” he said.
He added that the state government is exploring environmentally friendly alternatives such as bio-compostable and biodegradable packaging materials.
To support the transition, the state has distributed 55,000 reusable tote bags under the No Single-Use Plastic (NSUP) campaign and established three ReBag Stations across Penang to encourage the reuse of shopping bags.
In addition, three ReBag Stations have been established across Penang to encourage the reuse of shopping bags and further reduce reliance on single-use plastics.
Members of the public may refer to the Penang Green Council’s official social media platforms for further information on these initiatives and the locations of the ReBag Stations.
In addition to the NSUP initiative, the state government will also standardise the implementation of the “No Plastic Straws” initiative across both local authorities, namely the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP), effective Sept 1, 2026.
Under this implementation, the use of plastic straws will be prohibited, while more environmentally friendly alternatives such as bio-compostable and biodegradable products are strongly encouraged.
Sundarajoo said the government, through the Penang Green Council and local authorities, would continue public education and awareness programmes under the Community Education and Public Awareness (CEPA) initiative.
“This is not meant to burden businesses or the public, but to gradually build sustainable consumption habits and long-term environmental responsibility,” he said.
