A TOTAL of 680 reusable tiffin carriers were distributed to seven coffee shops in Jelutong this morning as part of the ninth edition of the “Stop Single-Use Plastic” campaign, officiated by Penang Chief Minister’s wife Tan Lean Kee.
The Pertubuhan Wanita Mutiara Pulau Pinang (PWMPP) chairman said the distribution aimed to encourage residents to reduce their dependence on single-use plastic containers, particularly for takeaway food.
“By using reusable tiffin carriers, especially for hot food, we can significantly cut down plastic waste and reduce potential health risks,” she said in her speech.
She said the campaign has grown steadily through continued community engagement and partnerships.
“This is already the ninth campaign since it was launched, and the response has been very encouraging,” Tan said.
Tan noted that the campaign in Jelutong this time was jointly organised with the Global Federation of Chinese Business Women Penang (GFCBWP), highlighting the importance of collaboration between community groups and the business sector.
“Environmental protection requires collective responsibility, not just government action,” she said.
She said the widespread use of plastic packaging has caused serious environmental damage, including pollution of rivers and seas, as well as threats to marine life.
“Plastic waste accumulates in our environment and eventually returns to us through the food chain,” she said.
Tan also pointed out that microplastics pose long-term health concerns, making it crucial to reduce plastic usage at the source.
“Reducing plastic at the point of use is one of the most effective ways to address this issue,” she added.
She urged food vendors and hawkers to support the initiative by allowing customers to use their own containers for takeaway meals.
Tan encouraged the public to make reusable containers part of their daily routine rather than viewing the campaign as a one-day event.
“Bring your tiffin carriers every time you buy food. Consistency is what will make a real difference,” she said.
She expressed confidence that sustained efforts would contribute to a cleaner environment and a healthier lifestyle for future generations.
“If everyone plays their part, we can create a cleaner and more sustainable Penang,” she said.
GFCBWP founder Datuk Cheng Mei Man said today’s meal-container distribution activity encourages residents to bring their own food containers, promoting environmental cleanliness and sustainability.
“Although this is a simple act of distribution, it represents thoughtfulness, care, and love,” she said.
Among those present were Sungai Puyu assemblyman Phee Syn Tze, Penang Island City Council (MBPP) councillors Tan Soo Siang and Nicholas Theng; and GFCBWP president Datin Eileen Quek.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat