Use of Highly Hazardous Pesticides in Malaysia Poses Health and Environmental Concerns
As an agricultural stronghold, Malaysia is heavily dependent on pesticides, bringing forth harmful consequences for human health and the environment. Among these are Highly Hazardous Pesticides (HHPs) that pose exceptionally high risks to human health and the environment. According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the World Health Organisation (WHO), HHPs are pesticides recognised as having severe acute or chronic toxic effects. As of 23 July 2026, out of 3,135 pesticides allowed for use in Malaysia, for both agricultural and non-agricultural uses, a total of 2,044 pesticides are classified as Highly Hazardous under the PAN International List of Highly Hazardous Pesticides.
Continuous reliance on HHPs for crops is a public health concern, as local and international studies consistently demonstrate the damaging effects of these chemicals on human populations and ecosystems. While the Malaysian Government has undertaken regulatory measures to manage and reduce risks associated with pesticides through the Pesticides Board under the Pesticides Act 1974, drastic regulatory action is needed to pivot Malaysia’s agricultural sector towards agroecology, reduce dependence on toxic agrochemicals, safeguard public health, biodiversity, and long-term food security.
In this report, the Consumers’ Association of Penang, with support from the International Pollutants Elimination Network (IPEN), examined the use of HHPs in Malaysia, namely glyphosate, chlorpyrifos and PFAS pesticides. The analysis covers their registration status, use, associated risks, and regulatory developments, while highlighting critical gaps that hinder progress toward safer farming systems.
Beyond documenting the current situation, the report sets forth recommendations for a national HHP phase-out strategy. These proposals aim to catalyse Malaysia’s transition toward toxic-free, sustainable agriculture systems that protects human health, strengthens biodiversity, and ensures resilience in the nation’s food and farming sectors.
Link to Excel file with data on HHP: Excel
“The State of Highly Hazardous Pesticides in Malaysia” report: https://consumer.org.my/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Final_HHP-Country-Situation-Report-2026_Malaysia-English.pdf