Johor odour pollution: DOE takes nine samples from several sites for testing

JOHOR BARU: The Environment Department (DOE) has taken nine samples from several sites in Johor where residents experienced odour pollution.

Its director-general Datuk Wan Abdul Latiff Wan Jaffar said the department received complaints of odour pollution from the Bukit Indah, Kempas and Skudai areas in Johor Baru as well as Senai and Kulai on Monday (Sept 9).

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“Our investigation along Sungai Tebrau found several spots with foul smells and oily film on the river surface.

“Nine samples were obtained from the sites and sent to the Chemistry Department for analysis,” he said in a statement Thursday (Sept 12).

He said the DOE is also using drones to monitor the surrounding areas besides keeping tabs on the air quality at the affected areas.

He added that for the pollution case detected at the Tiong Nam Industrial Area and Tropika Industrial Area, DOE would ensure that the clean-up works and disposal of the chemical waste are conducted promptly according to the terms of reference set by the Johor Baru district disaster management committee.

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“The department has been working with the relevant agencies including the police to investigate and check premises suspected of pollution.

“We will continue conducting checks on businesses that are potentially causing pollution,” he said, adding that the government took crimes against the environment seriously.

Various locations in Johor have reported a spate of odour pollution incidents since Sept 3.

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They included Pandan, Skudai and Tebrau in Johor Baru, as well as Kampung Orang Asli Pasir Intan in Kota Tinggi.

Wan Abdul Latiff said those involved in pollution could face actions under the Environment Quality Act (Amended) 2024, which provides a hefty punishment.

He said the Act, which came into effect on July 7 this year included amendments that increased the sentencing, fines and penalties with the amount ranging from RM5,000 to RM10mil as well as a maximum jail term of five years.

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“All industry players are reminded that we will not hesitate to take action against premises involved in pollution.

“We also encourage the public to cooperate with us by reporting any environmental pollution to the DOE through our 24-hour toll-free hotline 1-800-88-2727,” he said.

Complaints could also be channelled via email to [email protected] and www.eaduan.doe.gov.my