1 in 4 paints tested in Malaysia exceed safe lead limit, study finds

A study published by the Lead Exposure Elimination Project (LEEP) in Malaysia has found that one in four tested paints exceeded the safe lead limit of 90 parts per million (ppm). The research, titled Malaysia Lead Paint Study 2026, examined 31 manufacturers and discovered that nearly half of them sold at least one paint with lead levels exceeding the limit.

The highest reading reached an alarming 99,000ppm – approximately 1,100 times the safe limit. Shockingly, over 70% of the paints that surpassed the limit had no lead information listed on their cans.

Exposure to lead, also known as plumbum, poses significant health risks. For children, it can lead to permanent brain damage, while adults face increased risks of high blood pressure and heart disease. The study, released at DoubleTree by Hilton, called for the mandatory implementation of MS 2762, a voluntary standard that limits lead in decorative paints to 90ppm.

LEEP, along with the Consumers’ Association of Penang and the Malaysian Paint and Coating Manufacturers’ Association, highlighted that despite voluntary action, lead paint remains prevalent on Malaysian shelves. They pointed to the current state of lead-related legislation in neighboring Asean nations, noting that the Philippines and Singapore already enforce the 90 ppm limit, while Vietnam is set to transition from 600ppm to 90ppm by next January.

LEEP programme manager Ivan Mahardika explained that the 90 ppm limit is set considering the natural occurrence of lead in soil and trees, making it difficult to eliminate exposure entirely. However, he emphasized that Malaysia can regulate lead levels through legislation. The study also drew a parallel between lead exposure and asbestos, which, when inhaled, causes severe respiratory illnesses such as mesothelioma. Malaysia still permits the use of white asbestos, further contributing to the issue.

The coalition stressed the importance of constructive dialogue with regulatory bodies rather than debating the necessity of the issue. The Lead Exposure Elimination Project aims to transform this conversation into action.