KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has submitted investigation papers involving two senior Environment Department (DOE) officials to the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC), recommending that charges be filed over alleged corruption linked to the management of e-waste and plastic waste.
MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said the investigation papers involving the DOE director-general and deputy director-general had been completed and forwarded to the AGC for further action.
“Regarding the case involving the DOE director-general and deputy director-general, the investigation papers have been finalised and submitted to the AGC with a recommendation for prosecution.
“The commission is now awaiting the AGC’s decision on the implementation of charges against both senior DOE officials in the near future,” he said.
Azam added that the investigation paper involving the DOE director-general was submitted on Feb 26, while that of the deputy director-general was submitted on March 6.
He noted that issues surrounding the management of e-waste and plastic waste have long posed challenges, particularly in areas affected by improper disposal and processing activities.
Complaints involving air, water and soil pollution have also impacted the wellbeing of local communities, underscoring the need for coordinated action among enforcement agencies.
“The problem of e-waste and plastic solid waste has long been faced by the people and remains unresolved despite numerous pollution complaints.
“Ultimately, the MACC stepped in to investigate and detain those entrusted with protecting the environment,” he said.
Azam stressed that corruption in such matters could have far-reaching consequences, including adverse effects on environmental sustainability and public health.
He added that the MACC has led a special task force on the direction of enforcement management for the importation of plastic waste and e-waste, which he chairs.
Among the key measures decided by the task force is a complete ban on the importation of e-waste, which has been classified under the Prohibition of Imports Order 2023, effective Feb 4 this year.
The task force was established following serious findings related to the smuggling of electronic waste, including reports of hundreds of containers stranded at ports that pose environmental risks.
It comprises 12 agencies, including the DOE, the Customs Department, Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS), and the police, to strengthen controls at the country’s entry points.
