MICROPLASTIC POLLUTION IN MARINE WATERS: A MALAYSIAN PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

This article examines the literature study of the current situation of microplastic pollution in the marine ecosystems of Malaysia. The size, density, types of polymers, colour, and origins of microplastic in the ocean, coastal, and estuarine environments are all discussed in this article. ScienceDirect and Google Scholar search engines were used to collect, analyse, and sort the information. According to the literature search, the bulk of microplastics found in Malaysian ocean samples was between 100 and 5000 micrometres in size. The density of the microplastics discovered ranged from 0.88 g cm3 to 1.01 g cm3, which is lower than the density of seawater. In addition, the types of polymers were polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester, polystyrene, and polyamide. Red and transparent colour were two common colours found in the Malaysian ocean. The sources of microplastic such as industrial activities, anthropogenic activities, agricultural activities, and personal care products. Because microplastics can cause physical and chemical harm to marine species, pollute the natural environment, and negatively affect social and economic sectors, the critical information provided in this article may help government and non-government organizations develop strategic monitoring policies.