BY SHARIFAH NONG-JASIMA AND AMYLY YONG
KUCHING: The Kuching South City Council (MBKS) is stepping up its war on plastic pollution with plans to introduce biodegradable plastic bags.
Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng acknowledged that while awareness campaigns and plastic bag charges have existed for years, they have fallen short of making real impact.
“It doesn’t make sense to have a ‘no plastic day’ when shoppers can still buy plastic bags for 20 cents.
“The message gets lost when convenience overrides commitment,” he told the media.
To address this, MBKS will roll out biodegradable bags developed by a UK-based company, which are designed to mimic traditional plastic and decompose fully within two years without leaving behind harmful microplastics.
“The technology is here, and it’s ready to be part of the solution. It’s time we match our policies with real, tangible action,” Wee said.
The initiative will begin with supermarkets in the second half of the year, following discussions with retailers in May.
This phased approach mirrors the council’s earlier success with its ‘No Plastic Straw’ campaign, which removed over 1.1 million straws and earned national recognition.
Wee also acknowledged that eliminating plastic is unrealistic without alternatives.
“We cannot just stop something without offering an option.
“Paper bags can leak, but with the right technology, we can provide solutions that are both practical and responsible,” he said.
These biodegradable bags undergo biotransformation, breaking down into natural wax, ensuring no toxic residue remains.
Wee stressed the importance of engaging with businesses and the community to ensure a smooth transition, and MBKS’ approach is not about imposing top-down regulations.
“We believe in working together, and by listening to the concerns of our retailers and supporting them with practical solutions, we can make this shift successful for everyone,” he added.
“Bulk purchasing options are being explored to make the biodegradable alternatives cost-effective, ensuring that smaller retailers can also participate.”
The goal, according to Wee, is not to profit from these changes but to create a sustainable system where costs are balanced and environmental benefits are shared.
“When we discourage plastic use, we need to provide alternatives that are accessible and affordable and make a difference,” he concluded.
