THE day when there is no single-use plastic bag in Penang is coming once a framework on it is unveiled towards the year-end by the Penang Green Council (PGC).
PGC will formulate a no single-use plastic framework by the fourth quarter with a roadmap towards a total ban of single-use plastic and to instead rely on recyclable materials.
PGC chief executive officer Josephine Tan Mei Ling told state newsletter - "Bulletin Mutiara" that a comprehensive policy is aimed at further reducing plastic waste across the state.
Penang’s long-standing commitment to sustainability is well known as it became the first state to actively reduce the use of plastics in 2009.
“Penang has been a pioneer in this area. We were the first state to introduce the ‘No Free Plastic Bag’ campaign in 2009, followed by the implementation of a ‘no plastic bag every day’ policy last year."
“We also led the way in charging for plastic bags and banning plastic straws,” she said.
“It is timely for the state government to develop this framework. It will act as a comprehensive umbrella, providing clear direction not only to business operators, but also to plastic manufacturers,” she said.
For the public, Tan stressed that the framework signals the need for a shift in mindset, with no reliance on plastics to be more of a habit than a requirement.
“It is time for consumers to gradually transition towards sustainable packaging solutions, including suitable alternatives such as reusable bags,” she said.
Penang’s mission to eliminate single-use plastics officially began on Sept 1 last year, with the ban enforced at hypermarkets, supermarkets, convenience stores, department stores, petrol station shops, pharmacies, fast food outlets and other licensed premises in the state.
“Last year’s initiative was guided mainly by specific guidelines on plastic bags and straws, rather than a full framework.
Among the alternatives being considered for consumers, she said, are the new materials that resemble conventional plastic but are produced using biotransformation technology.
“These products contain additives that allow them to break down into microorganisms and eventually turn into wax-like substances that are more environmentally friendly,” Tan explained.
The framework may also get the attention of the state legislative assembly sitting.
Tan acknowledged that one of the biggest challenges in implementing the ‘No Single-Use Plastics’ initiative lies in identifying suitable alternatives for hawkers and wet market traders.
“For these traders, plastic bags are lightweight, affordable and practical, especially for items such as soup-based dishes and fresh produce. At this stage, hawkers remain exempt from the policy. Through the framework, we hope to provide them with a clearer picture and workable options,” she said. – January 10, 2026
