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Protecting Environment and Health: Malaysia Takes Decisive Stand Against Toxic E-Waste.
Malaysia has announced a definitive ban on the importation of all electronic waste due to a public health concern. The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has listed all forms of electronic waste under the category of “absolute prohibition,” thereby ending any previous discretionary exemption from importation. MACC Chief Azam Baki reiterated the government's resolve to put a stop to the importation of undeclared and illegal electronic waste through “firm and integrated enforcement action.” Electronic waste, which is made up of discarded computers, phones, and appliances, contains hazardous materials such as lead, mercury, and cadmium.
Several factors make the new importation ban part of larger MACC investigation into how two officials from the federal government may have conspired to defraud the nation of taxpayer dollars through electronic waste activities associated with e-waste. MACC had previously arrested and detained the director general and deputy director of the Department of Environment for their role in the abuse of authority and corrupt activities surrounding the importation of e-waste into Malaysia. MACC has also frozen numerous financial accounts and seized funds related to the two officials mentioned above.
The Ministry of Home Affairs has taken strong positions against e-waste dumping, saying: "Malaysia is not a dumping ground for the world's discarded waste." The ministry pointed out how e-waste is not only garbage, but is also potentially dangerous to the environment and to the health and safety of the citizens of Malaysia. Advocacy organizations advocating for a stronger regulatory regime around imported e-waste have long been urging the government to implement more stringent rules regarding imported e-waste.
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