School principal Rosnah Ismail said the project, a smart partnership programme between SMK Pasir Gudang and the Pasir Gudang Municipal Council (MPPG), had benefited the students and helped solve water pollution problems and improve the water quality.

“By placing the mud ball in the water, the mix of clay and organic materials will stabilise the water pH level, reduce foul smells and break down the organic molecules, waste and so on.

“As we know, the river water in Pasir Gudang is quite dirty, especially in Sungai Masai, because of industrial activity.

“Therefore, we are cooperating with MPPG to improve the water conditions in this district,” she said in an exclusive interview with Bernama recently.

Meanwhile, programme coordinator Zaifarizah Md Sukor, who is also a teacher, said the mud balls produced by the students would be paid for by MPPG.

“The project will generate financial sources and the payment received will be channelled to the school’s cooperative for the students’ fees,” she said.