Should consumer education precede plastic straw bans in Malaysia?

Question

Accepted Answer

Consumer education should precede plastic straw bans in Malaysia, say coffee shop operators.

Coffee shop proprietors in Malaysia are urging the government to prioritise consumer education on the detrimental effects of plastic straws before implementing the planned partial ban scheduled to commence in 2020. This call comes as concerns arise regarding the financial implications for businesses and the accessibility needs of certain consumer groups.
Financial Burden of Alternatives

Datuk Ho Su Mong, President of the Malaysia Singapore Coffeeshop Proprietors General, highlighted that the cost of biodegradable or alternative straws is approximately double that of conventional plastic ones. This price disparity, he explained, could necessitate an increase in menu prices, potentially impacting consumers and disproportionately affecting smaller businesses that may struggle to absorb the additional expenditure.
Environmental Impact and Public Awareness Campaign

Ho proposed that an effective environmental outcome could be achieved through a comprehensive public awareness campaign encouraging consumers to forgo straws altogether. He suggested that integrating educational components into classroom health lessons and involving local governments in this initiative would foster a deeper understanding and voluntary reduction in straw usage, thereby mitigating the immediate financial pressure on shop operators.
Concerns for People with Disabilities

The Malaysian Spinal Cord Injury Advocacy Association raised critical points regarding the accessibility of plastic straw alternatives for individuals with physical disabilities. They emphasised that many with conditions such as spinal cord injuries or cerebral palsy rely on conventional plastic straws as an essential tool for safe and independent consumption of liquids.
Government's Stance on Alternatives and Exemptions

Federal Territories Minister Khalid Samad addressed these concerns by stating that the ban primarily targets food outlets' provision of conventional plastic straws, with alternatives readily available. He clarified that establishments would not face penalties for supplying conventional straws to individuals with disabilities, and he downplayed the cost difference between plastic and alternative straws, deeming it minimal and manageable.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Should consumer education precede plastic straw bans in Malaysia?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends