Penang state pilots biodegradable bags ahead of hawker bag rules

Penang will launch a pilot by year-end testing biodegradable and bio-compostable bags with selected hawkers and market traders at one mainland and one island location, state officials said. The state is also seeking a plastic-free material that mimics conventional bags, including a coffee-waste-based option, before extending its single-use plastic ban to hawkers and wet markets.

Why this mattersA full extension of single-use plastic bans to hawkers and wet markets would widen demand for certified biodegradable and compostable bag materials in Southeast Asia.

• Pilot to start by end of 2026 at one food court/market site each on Penang mainland and island.
• Conventional plastic bags cost about RM5 per 100 pieces versus about RM15 per 100 for biodegradable versions.
• Penang enforced its No Single-Use Plastic initiative from 1 September 2026 at retailers, pharmacies and fast-food outlets, excluding hawkers and wet markets.
• Officials cite Sirim ECO 001 (bio-compostable) and Sirim ECO 098 (degradable, microplastic-reducing) eco-labels as recognised standards.
• One material under exploration is derived from coffee waste and decomposes naturally after disposal.
• Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow had targeted alternative materials to be ready by end of August 2026, per earlier reporting.

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