The Plastic Waste Crisis in Malaysia

Malaysia has become a significant destination for plastic waste imports, primarily after China banned foreign waste. The country has seen a surge in illegal plastic waste smuggling, where non-recyclable materials are dumped, causing severe environmental issues. Activists like Pua Le Peng have worked tirelessly to combat this growing problem, often closing illegal factories and advocating for stricter regulations. However, Malaysia struggles to manage the influx, as open dumps and burning sites create health hazards and destroy local communities.