Speech by YB Dato’ Seri Sundarajoo Somu Vice Chairman of Penang Green Council on 14 February 2025 at Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal, Penang:

Good morning, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,members of the media, PGC’s member and my fellow Penangites, It is both an honour and a privilege to stand before you today as we launch the Penang No Plastic Bag Every Day Campaign 2025. This initiative marks a significant milestone in our efforts to protect the environment and achieve a sustainable future for Penang.

Today, with the Penang No Plastic Bag Every Day Campaign 2025, we are taking the bold step of eliminating plastic bags across the state entirely. This
campaign will kickstart with the distribution of free reusable bags across Penang to encourage adoption and help residents transition to more sustainable practices.

We also want to highlight those businesses in Penang, particularly those required to comply with Plastic Bag 2.0 regulations. These businesses include:

I. Hypermarkets
II. Supermarkets
III. Department stores
IV. Convenience stores
V. Fast food restaurants
VI. Petrol station convenience stores
VII. Chain stores
VIII. Pharmacies
IX. And other related business premises that will be added to the list in the near future

We will provide a six-month educational enforcement period, from 1stMarch to 31st August 2025, to allow businesses and the public to familiarize themselves with the new regulations. Full enforcement will begin on 1st September 2025 onward.

However, we recognize that transitioning away from plastic bags is just the beginning. A comprehensive framework is currently in develop, not to phase out plastic bags but also to gradually eliminate single-use plastics across Penang. This is a crucial step toward a more sustainable future. Rest assured, we remain committed to finding practical solutions and eliminating unnecessary and unwanted plastics, ensuring a greener tomorrow for all.

Penang No Plastic Bag Every Day Campaign 2025 is more than just a policy; it’s about fostering a culture of sustainability. It calls on every Penangite to take small but meaningful actions to reduce plastic waste. By choosing reusable bags and saying no to single-use plastics, each of us can contribute to a cleaner and greener future.

To local businesses, you remain invaluable partners in this mission. I commend those who have already embraced sustainable practices and urge others to join this initiative. The government will continue to provide support and guidance during this transition.

This campaign reflects Penang’s vision of becoming a low-carbon state and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Together, we can position Penang as a model of environmental stewardship, leading the way for other states to follow.

Let this campaign be a testament to our collective determination to protect our planet. With each reusable bag, we take a step closer to a more sustainable future for generations to come. Thank you, and let us move forward together toward a plastic-free Penang!