The government is set to ban the retail use of plastic bags across all business sectors nationwide by 2025, said Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.
He also said that following the gradual implementation of the “No Plastic Bag” campaign in all physical outlets from 2022 to 2025, the campaign would be extended to other business premises.
According to a report by Bernama, Nik Nazmi said the campaign, spearheaded by state governments, was one of the long-term plans by the government in dealing with single-use plastic waste pollution in Malaysia.
Among the states that have organised the campaign were Selangor, Penang, Johor and Negeri Sembilan.
Currently, the ban applies to physical outlets – such as supermarkets, mini markets and sundry shops – and this will soon be extended to roadside stalls, said the minister.
In his speech at an event in Klang, Nik Nazmi congratulated 99 Speed Mart’s management for taking the stand to not supply plastic bags to consumers at all its branches and introducing the Madani reusable bag - priced at RM2 - which can be exchanged if damaged.
“We have given state governments and local authorities the flexibility to decide on the manner of implementing the ban, taking into consideration their respective local needs.
“The government’s approach is not just to fine offenders but to also provide an incentive to encourage the transition,” Nik Nazmi said, adding that more details will be announced in due time. - Mkini
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