Malaysia began implementing a voluntary EPR framework for packaging this year as part of a phased approach towards mandatory compliance for major producers from 2030, with the government currently developing the broader policy framework. However, for EPR systems to deliver meaningful impact, Ahi said policymakers need to create a framework that establishes clear responsibilities and a level playing field for all producers. “We are talking about policy and law that is implemented and creates a level playing field for everybody,” Ahi said. As voluntary schemes often struggle to attract the scale of investment needed for recycling infrastructure, Ahi stressed that the long-term success of EPR in Malaysia will depend on regulatory certainty. “Voluntary EPR does not necessarily attract the level of recycling investment and drive that you need because predictability is largely missing,” she said.