PETALING JAYA: Stricter controls and enhanced enforcement procedures are being implemented to tackle the mishandling of e-waste containers, following concerns raised by the Enforcement Agency Integrity Commission (EAIC).
Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said the ministry, through the Environment Department (DOE), will enforce strict controls over the entry of e-waste into Malaysia.
He said this effort complies with the Environmental Quality Act 1974 and international regulations, including the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal.
"Control measures will involve rigorous inspections at entry points, strategic collaboration with relevant agencies, and the adoption of advanced monitoring technologies to prevent the import of e-waste that could harm the environment or public health.
"The ministry remains steadfast in implementing these initiatives as part of our commitment to sustainable and responsible waste management for the nation's environmental well-being," he said.
On Monday (Jan 6), the EAIC called for disciplinary action against DOE officers who attempted to release e-waste containers at Westport, Port Klang, without proper authority or valid justification.
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The investigation, initiated in May 2024, revealed that internal information leaks and supervisory weaknesses within the DOE delayed the investigation and could have led to environmental pollution and government losses.
The EAIC has recommended disciplinary action against the officers involved and improvements to the DOE's SOPs and enforcement directives.
Nik Nazmi said the planned measures would affirm the ministry's commitment to proactive measures to address the issues highlighted by the EAIC.
The measures include enhancing the Enforcement Standing Operating Instructions (ATOP) and strengthening Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) related to e-waste management.
"These initiatives are aligned with the Environmental Quality Act 1974 and aim to bolster the effectiveness of enforcement actions, integrity, and professionalism in environmental protection efforts," he added.
Nik Nazmi also said the ministry is planning comprehensive improvements to procedures and operational guidelines, encompassing monitoring, enforcement, and investigation aspects.
"These steps are essential to ensure enforcement is conducted more efficiently, transparently, and responsibly," he added.
