Malaysia Penang launches statewide initiative to eliminate single-use plastic bags

MALAYSIA – The state of Penang has officially launched its “No Plastic Bags Every Day” campaign, a statewide initiative aimed at eliminating single-use plastic bags and encouraging consumers to switch to reusable alternatives.

The campaign, which aligns with Malaysia’s broader efforts to reduce plastic waste, took effect on March 1 and will culminate in a full plastic bag ban starting September 1.

Announcing the initiative, Penang State Housing and Environment Committee Chairman Datuk Seri S.

Sundarajoo emphasized the importance of giving the public and businesses time to adapt. A six-month transition period, from March 1 to August 31, will allow businesses and consumers to adjust before the ban is fully enforced.

“We want to give the public time to adjust to having no plastic bags in the state. This campaign is more than just a policy — it’s about creating a culture of sustainability. By choosing reusable bags and rejecting single-use plastics, everyone can contribute to a cleaner and greener future,” Sundarajoo stated.

To support this shift, the Penang Green Council will distribute 100,000 reusable bags during the campaign’s first three months.

After this period, consumers will be encouraged to purchase reusable bags to promote a long-term behavioral change.

Businesses, particularly those already subject to Plastic Bags 2.0 regulations, will play a crucial role in enforcing the No Plastic Bags Every Day policy.

These establishments are expected to lead by example, ensuring a smooth consumer transition while promoting sustainable shopping habits.

Among the businesses affected are supermarkets, which serve a large customer base and handle high volumes of plastic packaging.

These stores can significantly reduce plastic waste by eliminating single-use plastic bags and encourage reusable alternatives.

Department stores will also need to comply with the new regulations. As they offer a wide range of products, from clothing to household goods, they will play a vital role in reinforcing sustainable shopping behaviors among consumers.

Convenience stores, including petrol stations, must also adopt the policy. Given their frequent customer turnover and the common use of plastic bags for quick purchases, their compliance will be essential in reducing plastic dependency across daily transactions.

Large-scale retailers such as hypermarkets will also be expected to implement the ban. With their vast product offerings and high foot traffic, hypermarkets can drive significant change by introducing alternative packaging solutions and educating customers on the benefits of sustainable choices.

Fast-food outlets are another key sector affected by the policy. Many fast-food restaurants rely on plastic bags for takeaway orders, making their participation critical in minimizing single-use plastic waste.

Transitioning to eco-friendly packaging solutions will support the campaign and enhance its corporate sustainability efforts. 

Lastly, chain stores and pharmacies will need to adapt to the regulations. Pharmacies, in particular, often provide plastic bags for small purchases such as medications and personal care items. Encouraging customers to bring reusable bags will help reinforce long-term behavioral change.

Retailers are urged to encourage reusable alternatives and educate customers on the environmental benefits of reducing plastic consumption. 

A national and regional push against plastic waste

Penang’s initiative is part of a larger national movement. The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry is considering a nationwide ban on single-use plastic bags by 2026, signaling a major policy shift towards sustainability.

Retailers are also taking voluntary action. In October 2024, 16 major retail chains, including 7-Eleven and Watsons, pledged to phase out single-use plastic bags at stores across Malaysia.

Beyond Malaysia, neighboring Singapore has already implemented similar policies. Since 2023, supermarkets with an annual turnover exceeding S$100 million (US$75 million) have been required to charge a minimum of five cents per disposable bag.

The Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment reports that this measure has cut plastic bag usage by 70–80% within a year.

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