Malaysia Targets Nationwide Ban on Single-Use Plastics by 2026, Strengthening Push Towards Sustainability

November 7, 2024, Kuala Lumpur – The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) has announced a progressive plan to enforce a nationwide ban on single-use plastic bags by 2026, marking a significant milestone in Malaysia’s environmental journey. The decision aligns with the ministry’s broader ambition to reduce plastic waste and protect the nation’s rich ecosystems. Currently, this policy has already been implemented in several regions, including Negri Sembilan, Penang, and Kota Kinabalu in Sabah. The Federal Territories have also shifted towards reducing conventional single-use plastic bags, opting instead for biodegradable alternatives. This strategic approach is expected to gain