Perak State advances full ban on single-use plastic bags from 2026 amid rising usage concerns

MALAYSIA – Malaysia’s Perak state is moving forward with a comprehensive ban on single-use plastic bags, set to take effect on January 1, 2026. 

The initiative, proposed by the state government, seeks to reduce plastic waste and promote eco-friendly alternatives across retail and market sectors.

State executive councillor Teh Kok Lim, who chairs the science, environment, and green technology committee, discussed the plan during a recent state assembly session. 

He explained that the proposal is now being evaluated by the Perak State Economic Planning Unit for final endorsement. 

This step supports the national drive led by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability to phase out single-use plastics nationwide.

Teh highlighted the shortcomings of the existing fee system for plastic bags. Data from local authorities shows that revenue from these charges climbed in 2024 and continued to rise this year, reaching US$1.2 million in total collections by mid-2025. 

Such increases point to persistent high demand, particularly in rural communities where knowledge of plastic’s environmental and health effects remains limited.

“We face challenges like low awareness in remote areas, where many people still do not grasp the risks,” Teh stated. 

He added that wet and night markets often struggle without viable, low-cost substitutes, complicating a sudden shift.

To address these gaps, the state plans to launch expanded awareness drives, including community workshops and school programs, alongside tougher enforcement rules. 

Factories in Perak can keep producing single-use bags during the lead-up phase, giving manufacturers time to switch to biodegradable options. 

Several local producers have already begun developing paper and cloth alternatives, with production scaling up by early next year.

This effort builds on successes elsewhere in Malaysia. Penang state rolled out its own plastic bag ban earlier in 2025, pairing it with a consumer incentive program that offers discounts for bringing reusable totes to stores. 

Participants reported a 25% drop in plastic usage within the first six months.

On the federal level, Malaysia strengthened controls this year by mandating government approval through SIRIM Berhad for all imported scrap plastic packaging. 

The measure, effective since March, has cut unregulated imports by 40%, redirecting focus toward domestic recycling infrastructure.

Teh emphasized collaboration with businesses and residents to ensure smooth adoption.

 “We must provide practical solutions, such as subsidized reusable bags for low-income families,” he noted. 

State officials expect the ban to divert over 50 million plastic bags from landfills annually once implemented.

Environmental groups have welcomed the timeline, urging faster rollout of monitoring systems to track compliance. 

As Perak prepares, the policy marks a key stride in Malaysia’s broader commitment to curbing plastic pollution, fostering a shift toward sustainable daily practices.

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