Addressing Microplastic Pollution in Malaysia’s Water Supply: Regulatory Gaps, Technological Challenges, and Lessons from Global Practice

Microplastics are defined as plastic particles smaller than 5 mm. It has emerged as a significant threat to water quality, posing risks to public health and environmental sustainability. In Malaysia, the issue with microplastics is exacerbated by rapid industrialisation and urbanisation, which contribute to increasing plastic waste. Despite growing concerns about microplastics in drinking water, the initial study found that the country’s regulatory framework lacks specific guidelines for addressing this pollutant. This study employs doctrinal legal analysis, supported by desk-based research, to assess the extent to which the legal framework regulates microplastic pollution in Malaysia’s water supply. The findings of this study reveal that Malaysia’s current regulatory mechanisms are insufficient to manage microplastic contamination. This article recommends adopting international best practices such as the European Union’s Drinking Water Directive, in order to establish clear thresholds for microplastics. Additionally, it calls for the integration of advanced filtration technologies and the application of the precautionary principle to address microplastic risks proactively. These reforms are important to safeguard Malaysia’s water quality and ensure public health protection in the face of this emerging environmental threat.