Malaysia’s anti-graft agency has called for a six-month moratorium on plastic waste and e-waste imports, citing growing concerns over governance, environmental risks and national integrity.
Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said the pause would serve as a trial period to evaluate economic, environmental and enforcement impacts, stressing there is “no need for large-scale imports” of such materials.
He highlighted that the proposal will be discussed with the Chief Secretary to determine the proper authority before any permanent policy shift.
Azam emphasised for the need for tighter coordination among 12 task forces, especially involving Royal Malaysian Customs, the Department of Environment (DOE) and the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (MITI), reflecting how the issue has evolved beyond technical waste management into one of national interest and enforcement integrity.
Malaysia ranks among the top waste-importing countries since 2023, according to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s 2025 report, while the Mismanaged Waste Index 2025 placed the nation in the high-risk category, with 26.4% of plastic waste poorly managed.
