Green Action Week 2025
The Seed of Change: A FAMILY’S JOURNEY WITH CAP
Sometimes change begins with the smallest spark. For me, that spark was lit about 12 years ago, when I attended my first programme by the Consumer Association of Penang (CAP). It was an eye-opening session that made me see ordinary things in a completely new light. For the first time, I understood the hidden effects of everyday items like white sugar and salt. That very day, I went home and replaced them, my first step in a journey that would eventually transform my family’s lifestyle.
The changes did not stop there. I made a drastic decision to stop using canned foods, which had been a regular part of our meals – mushrooms, peas, red beans, all gone from the pantry. Later, I eliminated processed mock meats after learning how heavily they rely on artificial flavouring and additives.
What began as a few simple adjustments soon grew into bigger shifts: we reduced sugary drinks, questioned ingredients in bread, and even started carrying our own containers for takeout food. None of this was easy at first; it took patience and persistence to bring my family along.
What made the difference was CAP’s approach. Instead of forcing changes, I used the simple and easy-to-read CAP booklets to educate my children. They enjoyed reading them, and over time, they began making their own choices. Slowly, the resistance faded, and these new habits became part of our daily life.
Today, when I walked into a hypermarket, the contents of my trolley have completely changed. My children can leave without buying any junk food, not because I suppress them, but because they have learned to make informed choices for themselves.
Looking back, I can see how each “small, small change” added up. What once seemed impossible has now become second nature. Our family eats and lives differently today, more healthily, more mindfully, and with greater awareness, because CAP planted a seed of change that has continued to grow.
And as I reflect on this journey, I know there is still much more to learn, improve, and change. We are still making progress. The path of transformation is ongoing, and CAP continues to inspire me to take the next step.
– Vasumathi Muthuramu
Breastfeeding Coach (PhD Candidate, USM)
CAP’S EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMES TRANSFORMED MY LIFE
My name is Anandapadmanaban, and I work in a senior role at a private company. I’ve been participating in CAP events since 2019, especially those held during Green Action Week. Under the theme of “Sharing Community”, we shared seeds and plants with one another. In our tradition, sharing food, plants, and happiness has always been a part of life but CAP provided a platform to extend that circle even further.
During these events, several insightful talks were given on organic lifestyles. For example, the 2024 theme was “Sharing Energy-Saving Tips: Cooling Naturally”. We learned simple and natural ways to cool our bodies without relying on medication. One of the highlights for me was learning to make a drink using finger millet, which I’ve continued to make ever since.
In the 2025 Action Week, the focus shifted to the harmful effects of plastics and how to avoid them in our food. The theme was “Toxics in Plastics – How to Break Free from Plastics”. It was both surprising and shocking to learn how much plastic and how many harmful chemicals can leach into our food. We also discovered alternatives, like using cheesecloth or paper to cover food, which helps keep it fresh due to their porous nature.
Attending CAP events has truly transformed my life. Information is not just wealth, it’s health too. I have significantly reduced my use of plastics and strive to cook and eat organic food as much as possible. I now follow a healthier lifestyle that includes fermented foods, mostly plant-based meals, and avoiding processed items.
– Anandapadmanaban
Software Engineer (Seagate)
#GreenActionWeek2025 #sharingcommunity #breakfreefromplastic