Challenges in Implementing and Enforcing Environmental Protection Measures in Malaysia

This article discusses the challenges posed in implementing and enforcing environmental protection measures in Malaysia. The discussion begins with general background information regarding the problems faced by the Malaysian government in overcoming environmental problems arising from poorly planned development activities. Policies providing the basis for passing laws and regulations to promote environmental protection have been formulated to manage the post independence environmental problems. However, the post independence economic policies formulated by the government are often blamed as the principal reason for the present persisting environmental problems. Introduction of various legal and non-legal environmental protection measures have not been able to prevent further environmental degradation. Despite commitments to the objective of preserving and enhancing environmental quality and passing of laws and regulations to achieve the means, Malaysia is still faced with the problem of the competing demands of greater urban development and conserving the environment. The commitment to integrate environment and economic policies at present is slightly hesitant owing to a misunderstood concept that preservation of environment means limited development. It is often pointed out that the actual problem lies in implementing and enforcing the law. The effectiveness of the legal mechanism adopted by the country is dampened by the constraints that exist within the legal and institutional framework. This article will examine these factors as well as suggest measures to improve the implementation and enforcement of the environmental protection measures so as to achieve sustainable development