Finance Minister Sri Mulyani. Instagram.com/@smindrawati
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati supports the paid plastic bag policy initiated by the Indonesian Retail Association (Aprindo) to suppress the plastic waste production in the country.
"Everybody is now aware that plastic is one of the serious issues in Indonesia. Be it from the economy, social, or empowerment sides," Sri Mulyani said after visiting the MRT Jakarta project in Senayan on Wednesday, March 6, adding that it is good if the program aims at limiting the use of plastic.
The paid plastic bag policy at modern retail stores takes effect as per March 1. At least 30 Aprindo members implementing the program, among others include Matahari Group, Ranch Market, Ramayana, Superindo, and Alfamart.
Minister Sri Mulyani said that the government will consider the regulation in the fiscal policy. The policy will be oriented to the activities prioritizing the plastic waste management that change the plastic waste into economically valuable items.
Previously, Environment and Forestry Minister Siti Nurbaya questioned the paid plastic bag policy by Aprindo. She worried if the purpose of the program would not be related to the concept of environmental sustainability initiated by her ministry.
