'Reduce The Use of Plastic Bags' Campaign

The government is now looking into reducing the use of plastic bags. See the Star today.

Malaysian Energy, Green Technology and Water Minister Datuk Peter Chin Fah Kui has announced that his ministry plans to start a campaign to create a greener environment. For the kick-off towards a more eco-friendly nation which causes less harm to the environment; the Ministry will start with reducing the use of plastic bags, especially for packing food.

Quoting from the Star report: “We also plan to rope in other ministries for this good cause. It is important for the public to be aware of the harm plastic can do to the environment,” he told reporters after the ministry’s monthly gathering yesterday.

Ministry staff are thus encouraged to bring their own food containers to the cafeteria if they want to buy food. The staff members are expected to lead the way for their children, friends, family and neighbours to follow. This would certainly go a long way to protect and preserve our natural resources should everyone cooperate and change their attitudes.


The Minister hopes that if the “do not use plastic bags” campaign among the public sector in Putrajaya succeeds, it would then be extended to the private sector (shops and retail outlets) within Putrajaya, before going nationwide.

This is good news for green lovers but we must be wary of the plastic manufacturers who will find ways not to reduce their sales.Perhaps the government could look into giving incentives for the research and manufacture of greener packaging materials.Thus the manufacturers could then have the alternative to switch to biodegradable plastics based on agricultural residues or cast-aways, instead of the more conventional petroleum based plastics.