ALLIANCE for a Safe Community Chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye has called for urgent legislation to address the growing crisis of food waste in Malaysia, stressing the need to reduce the alarming levels of food wastage in the country.
Recent studies reveal that Malaysians waste approximately 16,688 tonnes of food daily, with nearly 60 percent of it deemed avoidable. Lee emphasized that legislation is crucial to curb this issue and ensure a more sustainable future.
"This legislation should establish clear targets for food waste reduction, mandate businesses to report wastage, and provide guidelines for food donation and recycling," Bernama cited Lee saying in a statement today.
"It should also introduce penalties for excessive waste while offering incentives for businesses and individuals who adopt sustainable practices."
He explained that food waste represents both an environmental and economic challenge. The production, transportation, and disposal of food contribute significantly to carbon emissions, which exacerbate climate change.
"By reducing food waste, we can lower our carbon footprint and mitigate climate change. Legislation can enforce sustainable practices across the food supply chain, from production to consumption," Bernama quoted Lee noting.
Lee also highlighted that legislation could incentivize businesses to adopt waste-reduction measures, such as improved inventory management and the donation of surplus food to charities and food banks.
He added that redistributing edible food could help ensure that no one goes hungry, even as food is discarded.
"Malaysia has committed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which include a target to halve food waste by 2030.
“Without legislation, we risk falling short of this goal. A legal framework will provide the necessary structure and accountability to achieve this target," he stated.
Additionally, Lee urged the government to invest in facilities for composting, anaerobic digestion, and other food waste recycling methods.
He also recommended further research into new technologies for food preservation, packaging, and supply chain management to minimize waste.
"Let us act now to ensure that future generations inherit a nation where resources are valued, and no one goes hungry. We must commit to reducing food waste and creating a sustainable future for all Malaysians," he added. – March 15, 2025
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