No Food Waste, No Plastics and No Littering During Thaipusam
The Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP), the Penang Island City Council (MBPP), and the Malaysia Hindu Sangam Penang State Council jointly urge all Thaipusam devotees, temple authorities, spectators, tourists, and charity organisations to make this year’s Thaipusam a Zero Waste celebration.
Thaipusam is a festival of devotion, discipline, and gratitude. These values should also be reflected in how we treat food, resources, and the environment. We therefore call upon devotees and organisations to reduce food wastage, avoid littering, and replace single-use plastics with reusable and environmentally friendly alternatives. This is in line with the spirit of the International Zero Waste Month observed in January.
During Thaipusam, many NGOs and voluntary groups provide free food and drinks through thanneer panthals and annadanam. While this charitable effort is commendable, a significant amount of food goes to waste each year. We urge those serving food to reduce serving sizes, distribute only one portion per person, and replenish supplies as needed. There will be no shortage of food for devotees, and mindful distribution will help prevent unnecessary wastage.
Devotees are also reminded to accept only what they can consume. Wasting food, especially food offered in goodwill, goes against the values of the festival and contributes to unnecessary waste.
To support zero-waste efforts, we strongly encourage replacement of single-use plates, cups, and cutlery with reusable options, such as stainless-steel plates and cups, or other washable utensils. Where reusable items are not possible, safer alternatives such as leaves or leaf plates may be used. Many stalls have shown that drinks can be served effectively in stainless steel cups that are washed and reused.
Plastic waste remains a serious concern. Plastic takes a very long time to decompose and accumulates in the environment, placing a heavy burden on land, drains, and water bodies. Reducing the use of disposable items and switching to reusable materials will significantly lower the volume of waste generated during the festival.
Littering continues to be a major issue during Thaipusam. Despite the availability of dustbins, large amounts of rubbish such as plastics, cans, bottles, food packages and leftover food are often left behind. The volume of waste is astounding, and diminishes the beauty and sanctity of the festival, besides harming the environment and affecting public health,
Devotees and spectators are urged not to throw rubbish indiscriminately and to dispose waste only in the bins provided. Parents are also encouraged to teach their children that littering is unacceptable and that caring for the environment is a shared responsibility.
The public should also be mindful that Malaysia has introduced stricter anti-littering laws. Under amendments to the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act, first-time offenders may be fined up to RM2,000 and required to perform up to 12 hours of community service. These measures reflect the seriousness of the issue, as indiscriminate waste disposal affects environmental quality, public health, and the cleanliness of our cities.
How devotees can contribute to a Zero Waste Thaipusam:
1. Bring reusable water bottles and refill it at free water stations.
2. Bring reusable containers, plates, cups, and utensils for food and drinks.
3. Take only the amount of food you can finish.
4. If you see littering, politely remind others of its impact.
Let us use Thaipusam as a meaningful platform to show that faith and responsibility go hand in hand. Small, mindful actions by each individual can make a big difference.
As the saying goes, “Cleanliness breeds wealth” By reducing waste and respecting the environment, we can ensure a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable future for the next generation.
N V. Subbarow
Education Officer
Consumers Association of Penang
Dato Ir. Rajendran P. Anthony
Mayor of Penang Island City Council
A.Tharman
Chairman
Malaysia Hindu Sangam Penang State Council
Joint Press Statement by Consumers’ Association of Penang, Penang Island City Council and Malaysia Hindu Sangam Penang State Council on 28th January 2026