MACC chief calls for AKPS and Customs to pool resources for stricter enforcement against illegal e-waste and plastic imports, as hundreds of containers remain stranded.
PUTRAJAYA: The heads of Malaysia’s border and customs agencies must combine their facilities to maximise the effectiveness of technology in tackling the country’s e-waste crisis. Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said this integrated coordination is critical due to the increasing illegal influx of electronic and plastic container waste.
He stated that strict enforcement and seamless agency cooperation require immediate action and more frequent ground operations. “After reviewing the latest data and statistics, we will recommend several comprehensive measures encompassing policy, enforcement, and international cooperation to address this crisis holistically,” Azam said in a statement on Tuesday (February 24).
He chaired a special task force meeting on enforcement management for plastic and e-waste imports. Azam added that each agency must appoint a responsible officer for all coordination actions, with involved officers required to be present at operation locations.
He also reminded attendees that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will conduct surprise inspections at critical locations soon. The inspections will assess the effectiveness of current enforcement actions against illegal waste imports.
Meanwhile, AKPS Port Klang commander Datuk Nik Ezanee Mohd Faisal revealed 818 e-waste containers have been stranded at the port since 2024. He said this alarming figure indicates an urgent need for a new and more stringent regulatory approach.
Presenting findings from a special committee meeting, he argued that policies on e-waste need standardisation and strengthening. “E-waste should be included under the ‘Absolute Prohibition’ in the First Schedule of the Customs Order (Prohibition on Import) 2023,” Nik Ezanee proposed.
He also suggested delegating authority to the police under the Environmental Quality Act 1974 to assist investigations. Nik Ezanee stressed that enforcement at all national entry points must be enhanced, with all agencies strengthening port-level control mechanisms.
“We cannot use the usual way of working. On the contrary, an unconventional approach needs to be practised to address this issue,” he said. The special task force led by MACC was mandated in December 2025 to formulate a holistic solution across all government levels.
The mandate aims to tighten control over hazardous waste entry and protect the environment.
The Sun Malaysia
