Malaysia bans e-waste imports and vows to end illegal dumping

Malaysia reclassified all electronic waste as absolutely prohibited for import and said it will enforce the ban, announced as authorities widen a corruption probe tied to e-waste oversight.

Malaysia announced an immediate, full ban on the importation of electronic waste, reclassifying all e-waste under an "absolute prohibition" category. The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission said the move removes the Department of Environment's discretion to grant import exemptions. Authorities have previously seized hundreds of containers of suspected e-waste and faced calls from environmental advocates for stronger action. The announcement coincides with a widening corruption inquiry into e-waste management and related enforcement. Key facts: - The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission announced that all electronic waste is reclassified as "absolute prohibition" effective immediately. - The reclassification removes the Department of Environment's previous discretion to permit certain e-waste imports. - MACC chief Azam Baki said, "E-waste is no longer permitted," and pledged "firm and integrated enforcement action." - Authorities have seized hundreds of containers of suspected e-waste at ports in recent years and issued notices for return to exporters. - The government has detained and remanded the director-general of the environment department and his deputy in a probe into alleged abuse of power and corruption; investigators have also frozen bank accounts and seized cash linked to the case. Summary: The ban removes prior import exemptions and is presented as a step to stop illegal and potentially hazardous e-waste shipments. Authorities have pledged stronger enforcement while investigations into alleged corruption in e-waste oversight continue.