MACC COMPLETES PROBE INTO DOE OFFICIALS OVER E-WASTE CASE

PUTRAJAYA, March 25 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has completed its investigation into corruption linked to the management of e-waste and plastic waste involving senior officers of the Department of Environment (DOE).

MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said investigation papers involving the DOE director-general and deputy director-general have been finalised and submitted to the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) with a recommendation for charges.

“MACC is now awaiting charges by the AGC against the two senior DOE officers,” he said in a statement today.

He said the investigation papers for the DOE director-general were submitted on Feb 26, while those for the deputy director-general were submitted on March 6.

The issue of e-waste and plastic waste management has long been a challenge, particularly in areas affected by improper disposal and processing activities.

“Complaints related to air, water and soil pollution have affected the well-being of local communities, requiring coordinated action from various parties, including enforcement agencies.

“The problem of e-waste and plastic waste has persisted despite numerous complaints. MACC has taken action by investigating and detaining those entrusted with protecting the environment,” he said.

MACC had earlier detained the DOE director-general and deputy director-general to assist in investigations into the management of electrical and electronic waste.

The commission also led a Special Task Force on the Direction of Enforcement Management for Plastic Waste and E-Waste Imports, chaired by the MACC chief commissioner.

Among the key measures decided by the task force is a complete ban on the import of e-waste, classified under the Absolute Prohibition category in the Customs (Prohibition of Imports) Order 2023, effective Feb 4, 2026.

The task force was established following serious findings related to the smuggling of electronic waste, including reports of hundreds of containers stranded at ports and posing environmental risks.

The task force comprises 12 agencies, including the DOE, Royal Malaysian Customs Department, Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency, and the police, to strengthen control at the country’s entry points.

-- BERNAMA