THE Royal Malaysian Marine Police (PPM) in Port Klang successfully dismantled an illegal e-waste processing operation, seizing materials and equipment worth an estimated RM6 million.
The operation, conducted in collaboration with the North Klang District Police Headquarters and the Selangor Department of Environment (JAS), targeted a premise within the Kapar Bestari Industrial Area in Klang.
Assistant Commissioner Jaffri Bidin, Commander of PPM Region One, stated that authorities arrested a 26-year-old local man believed to be the caretaker of the facility, alongside 38 foreign workers who were unable to produce valid identification or work permits.
“Following an inspection of the raid site, authorities seized various materials and equipment believed to have been used for illegal e-waste processing.
Among the items confiscated were 120 tonnes of copper, 560 tonnes of processed aluminium, and 811 tonnes of unprocessed aluminium.
Also seized were six forklifts, industrial weighing equipment, and various grinding machines and tools, with the total value of the confiscated items estimated at RM6 million,” he confirmed.
Further inspections revealed that the caretaker was unable to provide documentation for the materials stored and processed on the premises, indicating potential breaches of environmental and legal regulations.
“The case will be referred to the Department of Environment for further action under the prevailing laws,” Jaffri added.
Meanwhile, in Kuala Selangor, the Municipal Council (MPKS) uncovered four unauthorised factories engaged in processing recycled materials and e-waste during an integrated operation conducted from 9 am to 2 pm.
The operation mobilised 50 personnel from MPKS in collaboration with the National Water Services Commission (SPAN), the Department of Environment, the Kuala Selangor District and Land Office, Air Selangor, and Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB).
Authorities at Batu 21, Jeram, shut down a workshop involved in cable stripping and processing furniture and metal, issuing two compounds for operating without a licence and a closure notice.
Equipment including grinders, cable cutters, a digital weighing scale, metal cutters, and a forklift were seized.
At Jalan Simpang Tiga Jeram, officials closed a non-operational e-waste processing facility, issuing a compound and notice under Section 70(1) of the Roads, Canals and Buildings Act 1974.
A third facility at Jalan Klang Sungai Janggut, Batu 14½, processing recycled plastics, was also shuttered. SPAN and Air Selangor checked water meter ownership and seized meters where necessary, while TNB conducted inspections on electricity meters with follow-up disconnections planned.
These operations underscore the government’s determination to curb illegal industrial activity, safeguard the environment, and enforce compliance with licensing and safety regulations while preventing unauthorised e-waste processing in both urban and rural areas. - March 6, 2026
