In his response, Mr Khamis outlined several ongoing government initiatives aimed at eradicating plastic waste, noting that the formation of the task force is a key part of the broader strategy to ensure strict enforcement of the plastics ban.
He recalled that the government officially banned the importation, production, distribution, storage, export and use of plastic bags effective June 1, 2019, through Government Notice No. 394 of 2019.
To support the implementation, the Plastic Bags Prohibition Regulations of 2019 were enacted and later reviewed in 2022 to include a ban on plastic bottle cap seals, under Government Notice No. 291 of 2022.
“Mr Speaker, the government has continued to take strong measures against violators of the ban,” Mr Khamis told the National Assembly.
He said government leaders have issued public statements insisting enforcement, while nationwide education campaigns have been launched to raise public awareness about the environmental impact of plastic pollution and the legal implications of non-compliance.
In addition to public sensitisation, the deputy minister noted that heavy penalties are being imposed on individuals and companies found guilty of manufacturing, distributing, selling, or using banned plastic packaging materials.
To date, inspections have been carried out in 533 factories, 264 business operators and 84 market areas, including checks at border points to prevent illegal imports of plastic products.
Mr Khamis affirmed that the government remains committed to a cleaner, safer environment and will continue working with stakeholders to ensure full compliance with environmental protection laws.
