Malaysia enforces a total ban on e-waste imports after corruption probe
The government of Malaysia halted every form of e-waste import to protect public health and national security, promising stricter enforcement and deeper scrutiny of corruption allegations.
Authorities have imposed a full and immediate ban on the import of electronic waste in Malaysia to end the long-standing practice of foreign dumping.
The Anti-Corruption Commission reclassified all e-waste as an absolute prohibition, removing the earlier discretion that allowed limited exemptions. Officials argue that the country should protect its environment rather than accept hazardous materials from other nations.
Authorities have spent years intercepting containers loaded with discarded electronics suspected to contain toxic metals that contaminate soil and water when mishandled.
Environmental groups have repeatedly urged stronger controls, noting that waste from computers, mobile phones and household appliances poses severe risks to human health. The government now insists that firm enforcement must accompany the new restrictions to prevent continued smuggling.
The decision comes amid a widening corruption inquiry into oversight of e-waste. The director-general of the environment department and his deputy have been detained on suspicion of abuse of power. At the same time, investigators have frozen bank accounts and seized cash linked to the case.
The Home Ministry has pledged increased surveillance and warned that Malaysia will safeguard its national security by stopping illegal e-waste at its borders.
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