KUCHING: The Sarawak Department of Environment (DOE) has issued two Equipment Operation Detention (POK) orders to premises inspected during an integrated e-waste enforcement operation, codenamed ‘Op Hazard,’ conducted two weeks ago.
According to the department, the operation took place on Feb 15 in collaboration with the General Operations Force (GOF), Sarawak Air Wing Unit (PGU), and the Miri City Council (MCC).
A total of 122 enforcement personnel were involved in the operation, which targeted seven premises across Kuching, Sri Aman, Sibu, and Miri.
“As a result of the operation, the DOE issued two POK orders against the inspected premises due to pollution concerns under Section 38(1)(a) of the Environmental Quality Act 1974.
“In addition, a total of 175.393 metric tonnes (MT) of e-waste and 98.48MT of other materials were seized under Section 38(1)(c) of the same Act,” the department said.
DOE reminded business operators that under Section 34B of the Environmental Quality Act 1974, premises are prohibited from storing or disposing of scheduled waste unless they have a valid licence under Section 18 of the same Act.
Those convicted under Section 34B, could face a mandatory prison sentence of up to five years and a fine of up to RM10 million.
If convicted under Section 18, offenders may be fined up to RM50,000, imprisoned for up to two years, or both. In addition, a fine of RM1,000 per day will be imposed for each day the offence continues after a notice to cease operations has been issued.
DOE stressed that strict action will be taken against any premises that contribute to environmental pollution.
The ‘Op Hazard’ initiative aims to enforce environmental laws on e-waste, which has become a growing concern in Malaysia.
Improper e-waste management not only pollutes the environment but can also lead to criminal activities, abuse of power, and corruption due to the valuable metals contained in electronic waste.
The department reaffirmed its commitment to addressing pollution issues and urged the public to report any environmental violations via the toll-free hotline at 1-800-88-2727, email aduan_k@doe.gov.my, or through the DOE e-complaint portal at https://eaduan.doe.gov.my.
E-waste poses serious risks to both the environment and human health. If not properly managed, it can release toxic substances into the air, contaminate water sources, and emit hazardous gases.
Exposure to these pollutants has been linked to respiratory issues, nervous system disorders, skin diseases, and even cancer.
Additionally, ineffective e-waste management can create social and economic challenges, including an unhealthy employment ecosystem and increased disposal costs for both the government and private sector.
