Malaysia Imposes Total Ban on Electronic Waste Imports

According to the Economic Desk of Webangah News Agency, Malaysia has implemented a comprehensive ban on electronic waste imports, categorizing them under “absolute prohibition.” The decision, announced late Wednesday by the country’s Anti-Corruption Commission, eliminates the Environment Ministry’s previous authority to grant exemptions for certain electronic waste imports.

Malaysia has long struggled with large volumes of imported electronic waste, much of which is suspected to be illegal and hazardous to human health and the environment. Authorities have seized hundreds of suspicious electronic waste containers in recent years at ports, issuing warnings for their return to exporters.

Environmental advocates have long called for stricter measures. Electronic waste—discarded electronic products like computers, phones, and appliances—can contain toxic materials and heavy metals, including lead, mercury, and cadmium, which contaminate soil and water sources if improperly processed or disposed of.

The ban comes as officials expand corruption investigations related to electronic waste management.