The Malaysian government has enforced a complete prohibition on the importation of electronic waste, or e-waste, into the country starting today, in a move aimed at tightening environmental protection and border control measures.
The decision was formalised through the gazetting of the Customs (Prohibition of Imports) (Amendment) (No. 3) Order 2026 [P.U.(A) 151/2026], which places the restriction under the First Schedule of the Customs Order. Authorities say the amendment was enacted under Section 31(1) of the Customs Act 1967.
According to Customs Department director-general Datuk Amran Ahmad, the policy shift was agreed upon following discussions by the Special Task Force on the Direction of Enforcement Management for the Importation of Plastic Waste and E-Waste, which held its second meeting in 2026.
He added that the move reflects Malaysia’s stronger stance against the entry of hazardous waste materials, with enforcement agencies now given clearer authority to prevent such imports from entering local ports and borders.
A broader national effort is also underway to ensure strict compliance, as environmental protection continues to be a growing concern amid increasing global waste movement. Officials stressed that safeguarding public health and ecosystems remains a key priority.
The Royal Malaysian Customs Department will work closely with the Department of Environment under the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry, as well as the Malaysia Border Control and Protection Agency, to ensure full enforcement of the ban.
Malaysia’s action is also in line with its international obligations under the Basel Convention, reinforcing its commitment to responsible and controlled management of hazardous waste across borders.
