MACC chief Azam Baki says comprehensive action is needed to address illegal plastic and electronic waste entering the country via ports and land routes.
PUTRAJAYA: The issue of illegal plastic and electronic waste entering Malaysia requires urgent action and comprehensive coordination among enforcement agencies. Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said investigations into over 800 e-waste containers are being conducted with multiple agencies.
He cited Port Klang as an example where the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) acts as the coordinator. The Customs Department, police and Department of Environment (DOE) must be present on-site when information or complaints are received.
“For land routes, the police will coordinate with the relevant agencies for further action,” Azam said in a statement. He added that proposals for a moratorium are being reviewed and views will be presented to the National Governance Committee chaired by the Prime Minister.
Port Klang AKPS commander Datuk Nik Ezanee Mohd Faisal said the agency takes a firm approach by detaining suspected containers until DOE verification is complete. The AKPS will ensure every detention is recorded systematically, with releases granted only through case meetings.
The Customs Department will list containers in a master register for segregation, whether inspected or not. Nik Ezanee stated the DOE must be present during container openings, while the AKPS develops intelligence methods to identify high-risk shipments.
Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar commended the MACC’s strong commitment to combating misconduct and corruption. He said this commitment is central to preserving the integrity of national governance across government procurement, enforcement and international agreements.
Shamsul Azri expressed appreciation for the MACC’s proactive approach in exposing corruption methods. He also congratulated the commission on its new tagline, “Berani dan Radikal Perangi Rasuah” (Brave and Radical in Fighting Corruption), which reflects its resolve.
“I hope all these operations and enforcement actions will serve as a reminder and a lesson to all parties,” he said. He emphasised the need for civil servants to always comply with the law, uphold integrity and fulfil their trust responsibly.
The Sun Malaysia
