Malaysia must legalize and monitor e-waste processing

 The following commentary is contributed by Mr. Dave Avran from Malaysia. 

It is imperative for Malaysia to legalize and effectively oversee the processing of electronic waste (e-waste). The nation must enhance its monitoring of e-waste management as the level of public awareness regarding sustainable practices and appropriate disposal methods remains alarmingly inadequate.

Currently there is rampant irresponsible dumping of toxic e-waste in the country. See here and here for recent examples.

The prevalent improper disposal of e-waste presents considerable risks to public health. While increasing awareness is essential, it alone is insufficient; individuals must also be encouraged to engage in responsible e-waste disposal practices.

Research conducted by the Universiti Malaya Ungku Aziz Centre for Development Studies indicates that Malaysia generates approximately 365,000 tonnes of e-waste each year. Projections suggest that by 2025, the country will produce around 24.5 million units of e-waste.

In Malaysia, e-waste is defined to include six categories of items: mobile phones, computers, televisions, air-conditioners, refrigerators and washing machines.

The 12th Malaysia Plan aims for a recycling rate of 40% by 2025. However, in 2020, the recycling rate stood at only 36.67%, falling short of the rates achieved by Singapore, Taiwan and South Korea.

Current incentives such as minimal financial rewards for recycling e-waste are insufficient to inspire the younger generation. Therefore, more innovative strategies are necessary to motivate the public towards proper e-waste disposal. The amendments to the Environmental Quality Act 1974, which have increased penalties for the illegal importation of electrical and e-waste to a maximum fine of RM10 million represent a positive advancement in addressing this issue.

Malaysia must take firm and  decisive action to halt the illegal importation of e-waste, reconsider the Basel Treaty and establish a legal framework for the supervision of e-waste processing. This is crucial, as the management of domestic e-waste in Malaysia has never been adequately evaluated, which undermines the principles of a circular economy that advocates for the transformation of waste into wealth.

The economic advantages of legalizing and monitoring proper e-waste processing are substantial. The potential for job creation within the green technology sector, opportunities for technology transfer and the economic uplift from licensing and taxation will foster the development of a new industry centered on sustainability. There's also less dependency on natural resources and the creation of a new industry in construction materials made from recycled e-waste.

The environmental and social repercussions stemming from illegal e-waste activities in suburban regions are already considerable, and Malaysia's increasing notoriety as a destination for e-waste underscores the pressing necessity to tackle this issue. 

While a limited number of companies are registered with the Environment Department to manage e-waste in a responsible manner, their operational capacity remains insufficient. 

The escalating quantity of e-waste in Malaysia presents significant challenges for its effective management. 

Regrettably, some individuals exploit this gap, resorting to improper disposal techniques such as incinerating or dumping e-waste which exacerbates air, water and soil pollution and poses risks to public health. 

The improper handling of e-waste adversely affects the health of humans, animals and the quality of air, water and soil in the vicinity of recycling and disposal facilities.

Electronic waste comprises hazardous substances such as lead, mercury and other detrimental chemicals. If not managed or recycled appropriately, these materials will emit harmful pollutants into the atmosphere. Prolonged exposure to these toxins can lead to a range of health complications including respiratory ailments, reproductive issues and neurological harm particularly in children, which may result in cognitive impairment and developmental challenges.

Presently, over 200 unauthorized e-waste recycling operations are functioning illegally in Segamat, Johor, Gurun in Kedah and Teluk Penglima Garang in Selangor.