To recycle an old computer in Malaysia, back up your files, wipe the drive, and take the device to a household e-waste collection center registered with the Department of Environment (DoE). You can find the nearest center at ewaste.doe.gov.my. If the device still works, consider giving it to someone who can use it first. [1][2]
Why Recycle Old Computers?
In Malaysia, e-waste is classified as scheduled waste under the code SW110. [3] The DoE advises the public to send household e-waste to registered collection centers or DoE-licensed recovery facilities. [2] To keep household e-waste from polluting the environment, it must be collected and processed by facilities licensed by the DoE. [3]
Your Options for Old Computers
| Option | Best for | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Give to friends or family | Devices that still work | Wipe all data first |
| DoE-registered collection center | Household computers, laptops, and other e-waste | Find the nearest center at ewaste.doe.gov.my [1] |
| DoE-licensed recovery facility | Larger loads of e-waste | The DoE advises sending e-waste to licensed facilities [2] |
| HP recycling | HP computers, printers, and other IT equipment | HP has a recycling service for IT equipment [4] |
How to Prepare a Windows PC for Recycling
We recommend wiping the drive before any computer leaves your hands. These steps apply to Windows 11:
- Back up the files you want to keep to an external drive or cloud storage
- Sign out of your Microsoft account and other linked services
- Open Settings > System > Recovery and select Reset PC [5][6]
- Choose Remove everything [5]
- Select Change settings and turn on Clean data, which removes files and cleans the drive [5][6]
- Wait for the reset to finish before you drop off the device
Microsoft notes that the built-in data erasure is aimed at consumers and does not meet government and industry data erasure standards. [5] If the PC held highly sensitive business data, ask the recycler about secure data destruction.
How to Find a Collection Center in Malaysia
The DoE created the ewaste.doe.gov.my website so the public can find the nearest e-waste collection center. [1] In November 2025, the DoE reported 157 household e-waste collection centers registered nationwide, and it said it plans to add more through partnerships with local authorities and shopping malls. [1]
The DoE defines e-waste as broken, non-functioning, or obsolete electronic appliances, including computers, television sets, air conditioners, washing machines, and refrigerators. [2] Check with the collection center about which items it accepts before you go.
Recycling HP Printers, Cartridges, and Business Equipment
HP has a recycling service for computers, printers, and other IT equipment. [4] Learn more on the HP Malaysia recycling page.
For printer cartridges, you can drop off Original HP ink and toner cartridges and Samsung toner cartridges at a location near you through HP Planet Partners. [4] If you have more than 10 toner cartridges or 20 ink cartridges, you can schedule a free collection. [4] HP accepts only Original HP cartridges and Samsung toner cartridges. [4]
When It Is Time to Replace Your Computer
Ready for an upgrade? Browse HP desktops or HP laptops in the HP Malaysia store.
Computer Recycling FAQ
Where can I recycle an old computer in Malaysia?
Take the computer to a household e-waste collection center registered with the Department of Environment. Use ewaste.doe.gov.my to find the nearest center. [1]
Is e-waste regulated in Malaysia?
Yes. E-waste is classified as scheduled waste under the code SW110. [3] The DoE advises the public to send household e-waste to registered collection centers or DoE-licensed recovery facilities. [2]
How do I wipe a Windows 11 PC before recycling?
Back up your files, then open Settings > System > Recovery and select Reset PC. Choose Remove everything, select Change settings, and turn on Clean data. [5][6]
Is the Windows reset secure enough for sensitive data?
The Windows reset is designed for consumers. Microsoft states that the data erasure does not meet government and industry data erasure standards. [5] For highly sensitive data, ask a recycler about secure data destruction.
Can I recycle HP printers and cartridges in Malaysia?
HP has a recycling service for printers, computers, and other IT equipment. [4] You can drop off Original HP ink and toner cartridges and Samsung toner cartridges at a location near you through HP Planet Partners. [4]
What should I do with a computer that still works?
Offer the computer to friends or family who can use it. Wipe all data from the device first.
Sources
- DoE targets 3,000 tonnes of household e-waste collection by 2026 - New Straits Times
- Growing amount of e-waste in Malaysia alarming - The Star via Asia News Network
- More efficient disposal of e-waste nationwide - New Straits Times
- HP Ink and Toner Cartridge Recycling - HP Malaysia
- Reset your PC - Microsoft Support
- Do a clean wipe on a Windows 11 PC - Microsoft Q&A
