MACC chief suggests a six-month halt on plastic and e-waste imports to assess their economic, environmental, and enforcement impact on Malaysia.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has proposed a six-month moratorium on plastic and e-waste imports.
Its chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said the period would serve as a trial to evaluate the economic, environmental, and enforcement implications.
He stated there is no need for large-scale imports of such materials.
“This matter will be discussed with the Chief Secretary to the Government to check who has the proper authority before any long-term policy decisions are made,” Azam said.
He chaired the Special Task Force meeting on the Management and Enforcement of Plastic Waste and E-Waste Imports at MACC Headquarters.
Azam emphasised the need for close cooperation among the 12 appointed task forces.
Key agencies include the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM), the Department of Environment (DOE), and the Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI).
JKDM controls imports and exports and prevents smuggling under the Customs Act 1967.
DOE implements the Basel Convention, approving and monitoring waste imports and exports.
MITI formulates trade policies and controls import and export licence approvals.
Azam said the task force reflects the government’s view that the issue is now a matter of governance and national interest.
The Chief Secretary to the Government appointed MACC as task force chair in a December 2025 letter.
This signals a shift towards a comprehensive national risk management approach.
The issue ties to Malaysia’s obligations under the Basel Convention on hazardous waste.
A 2025 OECD report lists Malaysia among top countries importing waste since 2023.
The Mismanaged Waste Index 2025 classifies Malaysia in the high category.
It states about 26.4% of plastic waste is poorly managed.
Malaysia tightened restrictions on plastic waste imports from July 1 last year.
Most imports are now prohibited unless they go through the SIRIM and MITI permit system.
This aims to reduce foreign plastic waste and ensure only recyclable waste enters.
