The ban was part of the state’s policy to curb pollution, he said.

Bernama also reported him as saying both state and local authorities would no longer consider or approve new licences for plastic waste recycling plants.

However, he said, a review would be made every five years with regards to applications for new business licences for plastic waste recycling.

“Existing factories with valid licences can continue to operate, subject to the conditions of the EIA technical committee, local authorities and other additional conditions,” Bernama quoted him as saying.

Hee called on the Department of Environment and local authorities to enforce the law in “an integrated manner” by carrying out more detailed inspections to ensure procedures and rules were complied with.

He also said the state government had rejected an application for a temporary licence and electricity reconnection for a company carrying out plastic waste recycling in Sepang.

“The decision was made after taking into account complaints from residents and an investigation, as well as the effect of plastic waste on the ecosystem and the wellbeing of the people in Selangor.”