In Malaysia, Ramadan is synonymous with food as consumers, regardless of their religions, are spoilt with choice at bazaars, restaurants and buffets all across the country. Sadly, this situation has massively contributed to the food wastage problem in our country.
According to Oriental Daily, Solid Waste And Public Cleaning Management Corporation (SWCorp) recently revealed that about 20,000 tons of food are discarded by restaurants and hotels every week during the month of fasting. Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs pointed out that Malaysians threw away 15,000 tons of food every week but the number skyrockets to 20,000 tons during Ramadan.
“This is not supposed to happen especially during Ramadan but that’s the reality. The statistics are very shocking,” minister Saifuddin Nasution said.
Source: Yahoo Finance
In fact, the food wastage situation in our country is so appalling that our government spent over RM2 billion just for solid waste management in 2017. It is understood that a huge portion of the food discarded was actually still fit for consumption and don’t belong in the garbage bin.
When asked about whether the government could take legal action towards those who waste food, Saifuddin said there’s nothing they can do except advising the consumers to practise meal planning.
So guys, the next time you’re visiting bazaar Ramadan, buy only what your body truly needs. Don’t waste food guys!
Also read: Ramadan Bazaar Vendors Actually NOT Allowed to Use Their Phone or Wear Accessories on Their Hands
