CONSUMER BODIES ALL FOR PLASTIC STRAW BAN
Cheaper biodegradable straws a viable option
MALAYSIAN Muslim Consumers Association (PPIM) fully supports the government’s decision to ban the use of plastic drinking straws effective Jan 1, 2020.
PPIM lead activist Datuk Nadzim Johan said such efforts by the government were strongly encouraged as it would help save the environment and educate society.
“The government is lauded for its ef- forts and we want everyone to support the campaign.
“We (PPIM) will strongly support all the efforts, especially those related to the environment,” he said.
Fomca deputy president Mohd Yusof Abdul Rahman said to provide more user-friendly alternatives was the key to the success of this campaign.
“Biodegradable straws or straws made of bamboo and paper should be marketed at cheaper prices to encourage their usage,” he said.
Nadzim said biodegradable straws were not easily accessible in the market and the price was quite high compared with conventional plastic straws.
“Consumers should only be concerned if the straws were subjected to additional cost.
“The government needs to monitor traders, especially restaurant operators, so that they do not pass additional charges for the alternative straws to customers,” he added.
Federal Territories Ministry secretarygeneral Datuk Seri Adnan Md Ikshan said an awareness campaign to ban the use of conventional plastic straws would be carried by year end.