In a fight to battle indiscriminate littering and to promote recycling the Consumers’ Association of Penang, the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and Malaysia Hindu Sangam Penang State have released a joint statement. Their goal is to make Thaipusam waste free, “this is in line with the spirit of the International Zero Waste Month observed now.”
This is a festival full of devotion, discipline, and gratitude. The state wants these values to be reflected in how we treat food, resources, and the environment. “During Thaipusam, many groups provide free food and drinks through thanneer panthals and annadanam.”
The statement included “We therefore call upon devotees and organizations to reduce food wastage, avoid littering, and replace single-use plastics with reusable and environmentally friendly alternatives.”
They are also urging those serving food to reduce serving sizes, only give out one portion per person, and replenish supplies if needed. They are trying to eliminate food waste by better managing leftovers and avoiding overproduction.
