Going Green: Sustainable Living Tips for Expats in Malaysia 🌱🌏

Living in Malaysia is an exciting adventure, and while you’re soaking in the vibrant culture and delicious food, why not also adopt a more sustainable lifestyle? Whether you’re new to the country or have been here for a while, there are plenty of ways to live green, just like the locals. Here are some practical tips to help you embrace sustainable living in Malaysia.

1. Recycling Made Easy

Recycling in Malaysia has come a long way, especially in Kuala Lumpur. If you’re looking to recycle, the Tzu Chi Recycling Centres are a great place to start. They’ve got several locations around the city where you can drop off everything from plastic bottles to old electronics. They even help with sorting, so it’s hassle-free! There are centres in Segambut, Taman Desa, and Wangsa Maju, to name a few.

You can also earn rewards while doing your bit for the planet. Platforms like Klean give you points for each plastic container you recycle, which can be redeemed for rewards at various stores. It’s a great way to encourage sustainable habits while getting something back.

2. Go Local with Food and Shopping

One of the most eco-friendly practices in Malaysia is the use of banana leaves as plates. It’s common in many local eateries, especially in Indian restaurants, where meals are served on banana leaves instead of disposable plates. Not only is this biodegradable, but it’s also a traditional practice that connects you with the local culture.

When shopping for groceries, consider bringing a tiffin carrier. These stackable metal containers are perfect for carrying food and can often be seen in wet markets and some local food stalls. They’re reusable, sturdy, and keep your food fresh without the need for plastic containers.

Eating with your hands is another local tradition that’s both practical and sustainable. It reduces the need for cutlery, which often means less waste. Plus, there’s something quite satisfying about getting in touch with your food in this way!

3. Energy and Resource-Saving Tips

Living sustainably also means being mindful of resource usage. Here’s a simple, yet effective tip that’s common in Malaysia:

Use a hose in the bathroom: Many homes in Malaysia are equipped with a hose, which is used for cleaning after using the toilet. This practice significantly reduces the need for toilet paper, making it both eco-friendly and cost-effective. It’s a small change that can have a big impact on reducing waste.
Switch to LED bulbs: They consume far less energy than traditional bulbs and last longer too.
Unplug appliances when not in use. Even when turned off, devices like TVs and chargers can still draw power if left plugged in.

4. Support Local, Eco-Friendly Products

Malaysia has a growing market for eco-friendly products, and supporting local businesses is a great way to live sustainably. Here are a few local brands to check out:

A Bit Less Zero Waste: Located in Kepong, this zero-waste store offers a range of food items, as well as household and personal care products. Bring your own tiffin carrier or jars to stock up on grains, nuts, and other dry goods.
Biji-biji Initiative: TA social enterprise that focuses on upcycling, Biji-biji creates eco-friendly bags, accessories, and lifestyle items from discarded materials like seat belts and banners. Their work supports sustainable living and empowers local communities.
Tanamera: This local brand offers all-natural skincare products made from sustainably sourced ingredients in Malaysia. Their products are eco-friendly and great for your skin.

5. Get Involved in the Community

Living sustainably is also about connecting with the community. There are plenty of green initiatives in KL. For example, Kloth offers fabric recycling bins where you can drop off old clothes and textiles. They work to repurpose these materials and keep them out of landfills.

You might also enjoy the Kuala Lumpur Eco Film Fest (KLEFF), an annual event that showcases environmental films and hosts workshops on sustainable living. It’s a great opportunity to meet like-minded people and learn more about making a positive impact. Sustainable living in Malaysia isn’t just about reducing your carbon footprint; it’s also about embracing local traditions and connecting with the community. At Malaysian Link, we’re passionate about helping expats feel at home while making a positive impact on the environment. If you’ve got any tips or need more advice on sustainable living in Malaysia, we’re here to help.

Let’s make a difference together! 🌍✨

Tiffin carrier 📷: Davina