Malaysia is updating federal limits on heavy metals in ceramic cookware and a plastic bag ban in the state of Perak is taking effect in March 2026.
New migration limits for ceramics
In January 2026, Malaysia Ministry of Health announced specific migration limits for lead and cadmium in ceramic cookware, according to industry news provider Chemical Watch. Migration limits are now 0.5 mg/L for lead (Pb, CAS 7439-92-1) and 0.05 mg/L for cadmium (Cd, CAS 7440-43-9). This regulation was originally released for public comment in 2020 (FPF reported).
Perak plastic bag ban from March 1
At state level, Perak will ban single-use plastic carrier bags from March 1, 2026. The move follows the perceived failure of a 20 sen charge to significantly curb consumer usage, as previously reported by the Malay Mail, with implementation details later confirmed by The Star. Retailers will be required to shift to reusable or alternative bag options.
References
Lam Lye Ching (February 6, 2026). “Malaysia announces migration limits for lead and cadmium in ceramic cookware.” Chemical Watch News and Insight.
John Bunyan. (November 28, 2025). “Perak looks to ban single-use plastic bags starting 2026 as 20 sen charge fails to change habits.” Malay Mail.
Annabelle Lawrence. (January 24, 2026). “Perak ban on single-use plastic bags starts March 1.” The Star.
