KLANG: While the laws are sufficient, the government will study better ways to implement them to ensure the Malaysian Border Control and Protection (AKPS) is able to operate at its most efficient, says Tan Sri Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar.
The Attorney General, when met after a working visit to Port Klang where he held meetings with the AKPS, in particular the ongoing efforts against e-waste, said that the legal framework was among the matters discussed with the AKPS during the meeting.
“Several legal aspects were discussed during the meeting. Besides the AKPS Act, the Customs Act and Criminal Procedure Code to identify and conduct efficient operations. What is important is that we identify the relevant issue and apply the proper laws for the operational aspect.
“I believe it is sufficient for now but what needs to be looked into further is its implementation,” he said.
On the ongoing issue of e-waste, he said that he was told that such matters directly affect national revenue and that loopholes need to be shut closed.
“I have been informed by the AKPS that between Jan 27 and 30 the AKPS inspected 12 containers out of 61 containers examined, which were found to contain e-waste and related waste, as well as 80 tonnes of high-value copper.
“Economic crimes involving such illegal smuggling activities have a direct impact on national revenue and require integrated commitment from all stakeholders to strengthen enforcement, close loopholes, prevent manipulation, and ensure that the rule of law continues to be upheld.
“I was also informed by AKPS that enforcement operations led by the agency have shown that e-waste is frequently declared as 'scrap' or 'used goods'. This situation requires a higher level of technical verification, as well as stronger and more consistent supporting actions by relevant technical and enforcement agencies,” he said.
He added that as of Feb 4 this year the importation of e-waste has been deemed as an “absolute prohibition” under Customs (Prohibition of Imports) Order 2023.
“In line with the Government’s decision to completely close all avenues for the importation of e-waste into the country, I hope that the AKPS will implement integrated coordination and enforcement measures to ensure that this absolute prohibition is enforced effectively, encompassing border control, law enforcement, and post-entry monitoring,” he said.
