PETALING JAYA: A coalition of prominent non-governmental organisations are trying to change Malaysians' spending habits by organising a "Buy Nothing Day" later this month.

Spearheaded by the Federation of Malaysian Consumer Associations (Fomca), the National Council of Women's Organisations (NCWO), the Malaysian Youth Council and Cuepacs, the "Buy Nothing Day" will be held on July 16.

Fomca president Datuk N. Marimuthu said the day would be the start of a four-year-long National Consumer Campaign, aimed at changing the mindset of consumers.

"The era of cheap energy and cheap food is over. The focus is on Malaysians to change their consumer behaviour and take greater responsibility in facing these challenges."

"We have many activities in the next four years as part of our National Consumer Campaign, starting with the 'Buy Nothing Day'," he said.
"On that day, try bringing food from home if you usually eat out.

"Spend time with your family instead of going out. The challenge is easy: try simple living for a day."

At a press conference at Fomca's office in Sungai Way, he said the "Buy Nothing Day" was not a protest of any sort, but a day of self-reflection in relation to consumerism.

"It is also a time to think of spending patterns. How much money do you actually spend on your 'real' needs?"

Marimuthu said among other things that could be done was to use supermarket house brands instead of expensive products and to take public transport instead of driving.

"We want to make sure consumers know their responsibilities and can make balanced decisions."

Cuepacs deputy president Husain Mohd Yasin called on the 1.2 million civil servants to support "Buy Nothing Day", especially by using public transport.

Over the next four years, the National Consumer Campaign will also have events like a "No Television Week" and a "Public Transport Week".