Malaysia Sent Back Container from U.S. with Illegal E-Waste

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): A container from the U.S. containing illegal electronic waste was returned by Malaysian authorities. The Malaysian Department of Environment (DoE) returned the consignment back to the country of origin, following inspection which revealed presence of e-waste in it, which lacked prior informed consent.

According to Sharifah Zakiah Syed Sahab, Director, DoE-Penang, the order to send back the container to the U.S. from the North Butterworth Container Terminal (NBCT) has already been issued. The container contained e-waste which was being brought to the country for illegal disposal. It comprised damaged electronic screen pads, parts of electric boards and various small electronic components, she noted.

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The DoE reminded that the Basel Convention recommends that all waste must be treated or disposed of at the country of origin itself. Exceptions are allowed, but that must be with the prior consent of the sender and receiver countries. Also, Malaysia has banned imports of scheduled, including e-waste, into the country unless under special conditions. The importers who violate the terms could face a fine of up to RM500,000 in addition to a jail term of more than five years, if convicted.