GEORGETOWN, February 15, 2025 – Penang will implement the No Plastic Bag Every Day Campaign starting March 1, as part of efforts to protect the environment and promote sustainable practices among the public.
The Chairman of the Penang Housing and Environment Committee, Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo, stated that the campaign would begin with the distribution of 100,000 reusable bags for free across the state during the first three months. After that, these bags will be available for purchase.
> “We will have a six-month grace period from March 1 to August 31 to allow businesses and consumers to adapt to this new regulation. Full enforcement will begin on September 1, 2025,” he said.
From RM1 Charges to a Full Ban
Previously, Penang had implemented a no plastic bag policy from Monday to Wednesday, while from Thursday to Sunday, consumers were charged RM1 per plastic bag.
Since the introduction of this policy in 2009, the state government has collected RM8 million in revenue from plastic bag charges. However, with the full ban approaching, questions arise about its impact on state revenue.
How Will This Affect the People and Businesses?
An Additional Burden for Consumers?
With the rising cost of living, are citizens ready to adapt to this ban?
Will people need to buy reusable bags every time they shop, adding to their daily expenses?
Impact on Businesses and the Economy?
Retailers, convenience stores, fast-food chains, pharmacies, and supermarkets are required to comply with this ban.
However, small traders and hawkers are exempted from the rule.
What about the local plastic manufacturing industry? Will this policy lead to significant losses and affect job opportunities?
A Step Towards a Greener Future
Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo emphasized that this campaign is not just a policy but a movement to create a more responsible environmental culture.
> “We want businesses and the people of Penang to reduce plastic waste and contribute to a cleaner, greener future,” he said.
The state government is now drafting a comprehensive framework to gradually reduce plastic usage across Penang.
With this campaign, Penang will become the first state in Malaysia to implement a full plastic bag ban. But how ready are the people for this change? Will it bring significant benefits or just add another financial strain on citizens and businesses?