Selangor Bans Plastic Straws at Food & Beverage Outlets Effective July

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Selangor- the Malaysian state on the west coast announced stricter restrictions that prohibit use of single-use plastics. According to latest government release, all food and beverage outlets, including restaurants in the state will stop providing plastic straws to customers starting July 1 this year. Plastic straws would be provided only upon request by the customer. The new policy aimed at reducing the use of plastic straws was approved by the State Executive Council last Wednesday.

According to Hee Loy Sian, Chairman, State Environment, Green Technology, Science and Consumer Affairs Committee, all local authorities have already been advised to incorporate the ban in the Terms of Business License Application, which will be applicable for new applications as well as applications to renew existing business licenses. The primary objective is to educate and increase the level of awareness of Selangor residents on the long-term health impacts of plastic straws.

He commended food and beverage operators who have voluntarily implemented prohibition of straws. Further, he urged all remaining operators to cooperate in strictly implementing the government order, thus helping the state to reduce plastic use. The public are encouraged to bring reusable straws to food and beverage outlets, he said. Also the implementation of the policy will be closely monitored by the government, through local authorities, he added.