Sundarajoo (third from left) with several campaign partners after launching the ‘Penang No Plastic Bags Every Day’ Campaign 2025. — Courtesy photo
BEGINNING March 1, shoppers will no longer be able to get plastic checkout bag at most retail stores in Penang even if they offer to pay for it, on any day.
This follows the launch of the “Penang No Plastic Bags Every Day Campaign 2025”, marking a bold step towards eliminating plastic bags across the state.
Also known as the Plastic Bag 2.0 Campaign, it will start off with free distribution of reusable bags across the state to help the people in the transition to more sustainable practices.
State environment committee chairman Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo said hypermarkets, supermarkets, department stores, convenience stores, fast food restaurants, chain stores, petrol stations, convenience stores and pharmacies had to comply with the Plastic Bag 2.0 regulations.
“Other retail businesses will be added to the list in the future,” he said during the campaign launch.
“The state government will provide a six-month grace period until Aug 31 to allow businesses and the public to familiarise themselves with the new regulations. Full enforcement starts Sept 1 onwards.”
Sundarajoo said the state government recognised that moving away from plastic bags was just the start towards a more holistic campaign.
“A comprehensive framework is currently in development, not only to phase out plastic bags but also to gradually eliminate single-use plastics across Penang.
“This is a crucial step towards a more sustainable future.
“We remain committed to finding practical solutions and eliminating unnecessary plastics for a greener tomorrow for all.”
Sundarajoo said the “Penang No Plastic Bags Every Day Campaign 2025” was more than just a policy; it was about fostering a culture of sustainability.
He said the campaign called on every Penangite to take small but meaningful action to reduce plastic waste.
“By choosing reusable bags and saying no to single-use plastics, everyone can contribute towards a cleaner and greener future.
“Local businesses are invaluable partners in this mission. I commend those who have embraced sustainable practices and urge others to join the initiative,” said Sundarajoo.
He said the campaign reflected Penang’s vision of becoming a low-carbon state and aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
“We want to position Penang as a model of environmental stewardship, leading the way for other states to follow,” said Sundarajoo.
Penang introduced the “No Plastic Bag” campaign in 2009, which saw customers being charged 20sen for each plastic bag used.
From 2021, the campaign was then expanded with no plastic bags distributed from Mondays to Wednesdays.
The state government also increased the 20sen charge to RM1 for each plastic bag given out from Thursdays to Sundays.
