Penang has exempted hawkers and wet market traders from its state-wide ban on single-use plastics because plastic wrappings remain essential for their daily business operations, state officials said on April 30 [1].
Plastic bags continue to be the default packaging material for these groups until suitable, practical, and affordable alternatives are identified and introduced [1]. The exemption allows these traders to operate without disruption as the government works on more sustainable options.
State executive councillor Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo said Penang is engaging with stakeholders, including industry players and manufacturers, to develop viable alternatives to single-use plastics. "In parallel, pilot initiatives are being carried out in collaboration with local authorities to support hawkers and wet market traders in transitioning towards sustainable practices," he said [1].
The single-use plastics ban currently applies to other businesses in stages, covering hypermarkets, supermarkets, departmental stores, convenience stores, fast food outlets, petrol station convenience stores, chain stores, pharmacies, and clinics [1].
Consumers are encouraged to bring their own recycled packages or bags when shopping or packing takeaway food in order to reduce plastic waste [1].
The government aims to finalize sustainable alternatives through the ongoing pilots and stakeholder engagement before considering expanding the ban to cover hawkers and wet market traders in the future.
