It said these procedures were in line with existing regulations under the Environmental Quality Act 1974 and the relevant administrative requirements governing the management and disclosure of official government documents.

CNA had reported concerns raised by NGOs over transparency and public access to EIA reports managed by the department.

The report claimed that the EIA database was inaccessible at times, and that key details such as the classification schedule of certain reports were no longer publicly available.

“EIA reports remain accessible through the department’s official platforms, but full reports cannot be downloaded online due to security, copyright, and data privacy considerations,” the department said.

“Instead, access is provided through established procedures, including the submission of official requests and scheduled viewing at the department’s library.”

The department said the system was designed to ensure a balance between transparency and the controlled management of official documents, while maintaining compliance with the relevant policies and regulations.

The department said its role was to evaluate, review, and consider EIA reports based on technical requirements, legal compliance, and environmental impact before approving any development project.

It said it would continue strengthening the management of EIA documents and service delivery in a professional, transparent, and responsible manner, in line with environmental sustainability and public interest.