Bazaar traders go green

Ramadan vendors swap polystyrene for recyclable containers

KUCHING: Traders at Ramadan bazaars under the jurisdiction of the Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) are prohibited from using polystyrene containers, as the council seeks to protect the environment.

Customers are also encouraged to bring their own containers to reduce the use of plastic bags and wraps, said mayor Datuk Abdul Wahap Abang Julai.

“We decided to ban the use of polystyrene containers because they are detrimental to the environment and can be hazardous to health,” he said at the opening of DBKU’s Ramadan bazaar in Satok here on Thursday.

Abdul Wahap advised traders to check their raw food sources to ensure that they came from responsible vendors and were prepared in a clean environment.

He also called on food and drink sellers to uphold good hygiene practices at all times when handling and preparing their items.

This year, the council has prepared 248 trading sites for its three Ramadan bazaars in Satok, Semarak and Sukma Ria.

It also gave out 260 trading permits in several “mini locations” across the north Kuching area.

Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg launched the Satok bazaar, which was packed with visitors.

He distributed caps and aprons to traders. Ayam penyet trader Ahmad Esyam, 42, was supportive of the call to ban polystyrene containers.

“I have learned about the detrimental effects of polystyrene containers and non-degradable plastic bags. Now I use recyclable plastic containers,” he said.

He urged food sellers to play their part in protecting the environment.

Kuih seller Lina Khusairy, 32, echoed Ahmad’s view: “I use paper wraps and boxes.

“I agree that food traders should lead by example and stop using polystyrene containers.”