Illegal e-waste hub busted in Malaysia, 11 foreign nationals detained

Authorities in Bukit Mertajam, Malaysia, have dismantled an illegal operation suspected of storing and processing electronic waste, with the illicit facility believed to be worth millions of ringgit. The discovery was made during "Op Hazard" in Lorong Pengkalan Indah, Bukit Tengah.

“

Our staff are seeing more demand on our service. The calls are changing; there’s more complexity with the calls.

The raid, conducted in collaboration with the Penang Department of Environment (JAS), Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP), and the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN), led to the seizure of approximately 80 blocks of pressed e-waste and eight jumbo bags containing computer components and motherboards. JAS officials took samples for analysis to determine if they fall under scheduled waste codes.

“

People are requiring more supportive listening, more understanding about the mental health and addiction sector, more education, more ability to follow up with them, as well as help them set clear expectations and what to see when they want to access care.

In addition to environmental violations, the operation resulted in the detention of 11 foreign nationals, aged between 26 and 59. Preliminary investigations suggest 10 of them may have violated their visa conditions, while one possibly lacked valid travel documents. These individuals have been remanded for 14 days as investigations proceed under the Immigration Act. The premises owner also received two compounds from MBSP for operating without a valid license.

“

I think the government needs to invest more in the prevention promotion piece and the supportive piece for the community sector to support the demand in problem gambling.