Critical Analysis on the Malaysian Legal Approach and Policy in Plastic Waste Reduction

Abstract

The proliferation of the plastics manufacturing sector, rise in consumer plastic usage, and the inadequacy of waste and recycling infrastructure in Malaysia have contributed to the country's growing plastic waste problem. Several reports and research reveal that improper handling of plastic waste poses serious risks to human health, the environment, and social systems. Thus, Malaysia has created a 12-year action plan called the Roadmap towards Zero Single-Use Plastics 2018-2030 in response to the pitfalls of failing to execute strong governance in tackling plastic waste reduction. The goal of the roadmap is to minimize the use of single-use plastic garbage via an integrated effort by all stakeholders. Educating decision-makers across the plastic manufacturing, use, and disposal processes is also crucial. This article will analyse Malaysia's plastic consumption and waste policy, as well as the legislative structure in Malaysia. It is suggested that Malaysia develops a legislative framework and strengthening enforcement on single-use plastics to cut down on waste using the preventive principle and incorporating ideas closely connected to Green Economy.