Make This Ramadhan Spiritually Enriching, Avoid Food and Plastic Waste
As Ramadhan approaches, the Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP) urges all Malaysians to reflect on the environmental and societal impacts of our consumption habits during this sacred period. While Ramadhan is a time for spiritual reflection and self-discipline, unfortunately, for some, it has become a period of feasting and wasteful spending.
Food Waste: A Growing Concern
Excessive food preparation for iftar and sahur, especially at bazaars and for breaking fast, often results in significant food waste. According to the Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Corporation (SWCorp) in 2023, Malaysia is estimated to waste 75,000 tonnes of food during Ramadhan – 15 to 20% more compared to other months, if nothing is done to reduce wastage.[1] This wastage is not only sinful but also depletes resources, contributes to environmental degradation, and exacerbates climate change through greenhouse gas emissions from decomposing food.
We urge the public to:
1. Purchase Wisely: Resist the temptation to overbuy. Be mindful of portion sizes and buy only the necessary amount of food to prevent wastage.
2. Store Leftovers Properly: Freeze or repurpose leftovers to avoid wastage.
3. Proper Food Storage: Sellers should store food appropriately to maintain its quality and prevent spoilage.
4. Support Food Donation Initiatives: Participate in or support programmes that collect surplus food from bazaars and distribute it to those in need.
5. Raise Awareness: Educate family and friends about the importance of reducing food and plastic waste during Ramadhan.
Additionally, we commend the recent directive by the Putrajaya Corporation (PPj) requiring Ramadhan bazaar vendors in Putrajaya to prepare and sell food only after 3pm. This initiative aims to ensure food safety, reduce spoilage and prevent potential food poisoning. CAP urges local authorities across Malaysia to adopt similar measures to maintain food hygiene and curb unnecessary food wastage.[2]
Avoid Plastic Packaging and Containers
Plastic waste is another pressing issue exacerbated during Ramadhan, due to the widespread use of disposable single-use plastic containers and packaging for takeaway food from bazaars. The surge in waste during this month highlights the urgent need for more sustainable practices.
According to Alam Flora Sdn Bhd, a waste management company, solid waste collection increases substantially during Ramadhan. In 2024 alone, the company collected 54,000 metric tonnes of waste over just 20 days in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Pahang – 4,000 metric tonnes more than the previous year. A large proportion of this waste comprised uneaten food and plastic packaging from Ramadhan bazaars.
This problem extends to landfills, where daily waste transported during Ramadhan rose from 2,500 to 2,800 metric tonnes in Kuala Lumpur.[3] Disposable plastic packaging and polystyrene containers are among the major contributors to this alarming increase.
To minimize environmental harm, we encourage everyone to:
1. Cook and Dine at Home: Prepare meals at home using fresh ingredients. This helps to reduce plastic waste from takeaway packaging while promoting healthier eating habits.
2. Use Reusable Containers: Bring your own food and drink containers when purchasing from bazaars.
3. Provide Incentives: Vendors are encouraged to offer discounts for customers who bring their own containers to promote the reduction in single-use plastic waste.
We also support the no-plastic bag campaign encouraged by PPj at Ramadhan bazaars and call on other local councils to enforce similar regulations. Vendors must take responsibility by offering more eco-friendly packaging, while consumers should actively refuse single-use plastics whenever possible.
A Call for Change
As we embrace the spiritual essence of Ramadhan, let us extend the values of gratitude, self-discipline and care – not only towards others but also towards our environment. Reducing food and plastic waste is not only an act of sustainability but also an expression of our commitment to being stewards of the Earth.
CAP calls on individuals, vendors and policymakers to take meaningful action this Ramadhan. Together, we can make conscious choices that honour the true spirit of the holy month while safeguarding the planet for future generations.
Mohideen Abdul Kader
President
Consumers’ Association of Penang
Press Statement, 25 February 2025
[1] Unsold, leftover food at Ramadan bazaars in Malaysia raises concerns over wastage. (2023). CNA. https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/unsold-leftover-excess-food-malaysia-ramadan-bazaars-wastage-impact-environment-volunteer-needy
[2] Mail, M. (2025). After 3pm or else: Putrajaya Ramadan bazaar traders face strict deadline, warns PPj. https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/02/16/only-after-the-clock-strikes-three-putrajaya-ramadan-bazaar-traders-given-strict-deadline-comply-or-face-action-says-ppj/
[3] KL, Putrajaya and Pahang see an increase of 4,000 metric tonnes in solid waste collection during Ramadan. (2024). https://twentytwo13.my/kl-putrajaya-and-pahang-see-an-increase-of-4000-metric-tonnes-in-solid-waste-collection-during-ramadan/