Regulation

Malaysia announces immediate ban on import of e-waste

Malaysia announces immediate ban on import of e-waste

Malaysia has announced an immediate and full ban on the importation of electronic waste (e-waste) – discarded electronic products such as computers, mobile phones and appliances.

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, which is dedicated to investigating and prosecuting corruption, abuse of power and malpractice across public and private sectors, has said in a statement that e-waste would be reclassified under the “absolute prohibition” category – effective immediately.

Local press reports suggest that the decision follows the second meeting of the Special Task Force on the Direction of Enforcement Management for the Importation of Plastic Waste and E-Waste, aimed at tightening controls on the entry of hazardous waste and safeguarding the environment.

This ruling removes the discretionary power previously given to the Department of Environment to grant exemptions for the importation of certain types of e-waste.

This may be a significant development, given that Malaysia has long had problems with large volumes of imported e-waste. E-waste can contain toxic substances and heavy metals including lead, mercury and cadmium that might pollute soil and water resources if improperly processed or dumped.

According to the AP news service, authorities have seized hundreds of containers of suspected e-waste at ports in recent years and issued notices for return to exporters.

AP adds that the ban comes as authorities widen a corruption inquiry tied to e-waste management. Last week, the MACC detained and remanded the director-general of the environment department and his deputy over alleged abuse of power and corruption involving e-waste oversight. 

In a strong statement the country’s Home Ministry has said the government would increase efforts to combat the smuggling of e-waste into the country, noting: “Malaysia is not a dumping ground for the world's waste.”

Environmental advocates have long urged stronger action on this issue. Indeed, in October last year we highlighted an investigative report looking at the exporting of electronic waste from the US to developing countries, in which Malaysia was a primary recipient. The problem was also highlighted in the ITU’s Global Connectivity Report 2025.

It will be interesting to see whether this move is successful and, indeed, whether it influences the policies of any other affected countries.



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