GEORGE TOWN: As thaneer panthal (refreshment) stalls are set up across the city ahead of Thaipusam, traffic has slowed to a crawl on several major roads. The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has urged road users to plan their journeys around the island. Rajendran said about 100 tonnes of solid waste were ­produced during Thaipusam each year, with 50% to 55% being food waste. “We have set up 27 rubbish bins across the island and provided special bins for food waste. Consumers Association of Penang senior education officer NV Subbarow urged devotees, temple authorities, spectators, tourists and charity groups to help make this year’s Thaipusam a zero-waste celebration.

Source: The Star January 29, 2026 02:47 UTC