Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission completes investigation into senior environment department officers, recommends charges for corruption linked to waste management.
PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has completed its investigation into senior officers from the Department of Environment (DOE) over corruption linked to e-waste and plastic waste management.
MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said investigation papers for the DOE director-general and deputy director-general have been finalised and submitted to the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC).
“MACC is now awaiting charges by the AGC against the two senior DOE officers,” he said in a statement.
The investigation papers for the director-general were submitted on Feb 26, with those for the deputy director-general submitted on March 6.
Azam Baki stated that complaints about pollution from improper waste disposal have long affected local communities.
“The problem of e-waste and plastic waste has persisted despite numerous complaints,” he said.
He added that MACC took action by investigating and detaining those entrusted with protecting the environment.
The commission had earlier detained both senior DOE officials to assist in the probe.
MACC also leads a Special Task Force on the Direction of Enforcement Management for Plastic Waste and E-Waste Imports.
A key measure decided by the task force is a complete ban on e-waste imports, effective Feb 4, 2026.
This ban classifies e-waste under the Absolute Prohibition category in the Customs Order 2023.
The task force was established following serious findings related to electronic waste smuggling.
It comprises 12 agencies, including the DOE, Royal Malaysian Customs Department, and the police.
The agencies aim to strengthen control at the country’s entry points.