Malaysia Bans Electronic Waste Imports

Malaysia has imposed an immediate and comprehensive ban on the import of electronic waste, declaring that the country will no longer serve as a dumping ground for the world’s discarded electronics.

In a statement issued late Wednesday, Malaysia’s Anti-Corruption Commission announced that all electronic waste, commonly known as e-waste, has been reclassified under an “absolute prohibition” category. The move removes previous discretionary powers that allowed the Department of Environment to grant limited exemptions for certain types of electronic waste imports.

Azam Baki, chief commissioner of the Anti-Corruption Commission, said that e-waste imports are now entirely prohibited, pledging strict and coordinated enforcement to prevent illegal shipments from entering the country. Authorities said the new policy will be backed by intensified inspections and tougher legal action against offenders.

Malaysia has previously faced large inflows of imported electronic waste, much of it suspected to be illegal and linked to serious risks to public health and the environment. In recent years, enforcement agencies have seized hundreds of shipping containers believed to contain unlawful e-waste and ordered their return to exporting countries.

Environmental groups have long called for stronger controls, warning that discarded electronics such as computers, mobile phones and household appliances often contain toxic substances and heavy metals, including lead, mercury and cadmium. Improper handling or disposal can contaminate soil and water supplies, posing long-term health and ecological threats.

The ban comes as authorities expand corruption investigations related to the management of electronic waste. Last week, the Anti-Corruption Commission detained the director-general of the Department of Environment and his deputy as part of a probe into alleged abuse of power and corruption linked to e-waste oversight. The investigation has also involved the freezing of bank accounts and the seizure of cash connected to the case.

In a social media statement on Wednesday, Malaysia’s Interior Ministry pledged to strengthen government efforts to combat the smuggling of electronic waste into the country.

“Malaysia is not the world’s dumping ground,” the ministry said. “Electronic waste is not just rubbish. It is a serious threat to the environment, public health and national security.”