Wasted food is a considerable component of the world’s food system challenges. On an average, a Malaysian throws almost one kilogramme of food daily. Food waste amount is huge, especially during festivals. Hotels and resorts that organize feasts or buffets throw away a lot of food during Ramadan.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Wan Azizah Wan Ismail spoke at the Malaysian Agriculture, Horticulture and Agro-Tourism Exhibition (MAHA). Photo credit: Mukhriz Hazim.

On 2^nd December 2018, Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail exclusively mentioned a law proposal on food waste reduction during her speech in the closing ceremony of the Malaysian Agriculture, Horticulture and Agro-Tourism Exhibition (MAHA) – the largest agricultural exposition exhibition in South-east Asia this year. According to the Deputy Prime Minister, the government was studying carefully from various aspects the need to formulate the Food Waste Act. “The formulation of such a law was important in efforts by the government to stop the habit of wasting food in the society. A law on food waste will be formulated upon completion of a study on it” – said the deputy prime minister.

Furthermore, a Malaysian Food Bank Programme would be introduced in shopping centres to address the issue of food waste through the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs. The programme, to be implemented nationwide beginning early next year, would see food surplus obtained from hypermarkets such as bread, vegetables and fruits distributed to those in need.

Datuk Salahuddin Ayob, Minister of Agriculture and Agro-based Industry