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KUCHING, Feb 25 – A major crackdown on illegal e-waste handling in Sarawak has resulted in the seizure of approximately 175.393 metric tons (MT) of electronic waste and 98.48 MT of other materials. The operation, known as Ops Hazard, was conducted recently by the Sarawak Department of Environment (DoE) in collaboration with the General Operations Force (GOF).
The operation led to the issuance of two Equipment Operation Detention (POK) orders under Section 38(1)(a) of the Environmental Quality Act (EQA) 1974. These measures aim to curb the improper disposal and processing of e-waste, which poses significant environmental hazards and could be linked to criminal activities due to the presence of valuable materials like precious metals in discarded electronics.
Multiple Locations Raided Across Sarawak
The integrated enforcement effort covered several locations across the state, including Kuching, Sri Aman, Sibu, and Miri. Seven premises were inspected as part of the initiative to crack down on illegal e-waste activities.
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Ops Hazard involved a total of 122 personnel, including:
- 17 officers from the DoE,
- 93 members of the GOF,
- Three officers from the Air Wing Unit (PGU) of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), and
- Nine officers from the Miri City Council (MCM).
Strict Penalties for Violators
Under Section 34B of the EQA 1974, it is illegal to place, deposit, or dispose of scheduled waste without a valid licence under Section 18 of the same Act. Violators face severe penalties, including:
- A mandatory prison sentence of up to five years,
- A fine ranging from RM100,000 to RM10 million for Section 34B violations,
- A fine of up to RM50,000 or imprisonment of up to two years, or both, for Section 18 violations,
- An additional fine of RM1,000 for each day the offence continues after receiving a notice to cease activities.
Public Encouraged to Report Environmental Violations
The DoE urges members of the public to report any suspected illegal waste disposal activities. Reports can be made via the department’s 24-hour toll-free hotline at 1-800-88-2727 or by emailing aduan_k@doe.gov.my through the DoE’s official portal.
With stricter enforcement, Ops Hazard aims to protect Sarawak’s environment from the dangers of improper e-waste handling and ensure compliance with environmental laws.