Parliament Passes Environmental Quality Amendment Bill 2026
Strengthening Sabah and Sarawak’s Authority Over Scheduled Waste
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 25 — Parliament has approved the Environmental Quality (Amendment) Bill 2026, granting Sabah and Sarawak greater authority over scheduled waste management in line with the Malaysia Agreement 1963.
Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Arthur Joseph Kurup said the amendment reflects the federal government’s commitment to strengthening environmental governance while recognising the constitutional rights of the two states.
He said the decision followed an agreement reached during a Malaysia Agreement 1963 Special Council meeting chaired by the prime minister with Sabah and Sarawak leaders.
The amendment is intended to enhance waste management while respecting the autonomy of the states.
New provision allows delegation of federal authority
The Bill introduces a new provision allowing the minister to suspend the enforcement of the Environmental Quality Act 1974 in specific areas.
This enables Sabah and Sarawak to implement their own regulations on scheduled waste without overlapping federal laws.
The provision is based on Article 95C of the Federal Constitution, which allows Parliament to delegate certain powers to the two states.
This mechanism allows federal laws to be adapted to suit Sabah and Sarawak’s specific needs.
Safeguards in place to ensure proper oversight
Arthur said strict procedures must be followed before any suspension can take place.
This includes review by the Attorney General’s Chambers and approval by the Cabinet.
He said this ensures transparency and protects public interest.
The amendment also ensures a smooth transition when state laws take effect.
Move supports autonomy and governance reforms
Arthur noted that similar provisions already exist in other federal legislation.
These include laws related to electricity, architecture and renewable energy.
The amendment is seen as part of broader efforts to strengthen Sabah and Sarawak’s autonomy within Malaysia.
-wilayah.com.my
