Johor sultan orders probe into pollution of Benut, Machap rivers

Johor sultan orders probe into pollution of Benut, Machap rivers

Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar says this is to ensure there is no repeat of the Sungai Kim Kim incident.

Johor ruler Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar says he wants to avoid further incidents like the chemical pollution at Sungai Kim Kim. (Bernama pic)
JOHOR BAHRU:
Johor ruler Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar today ordered an immediate investigation of the pollution in Sungai Benut and Sungai Machap in Simpang Renggam, saying the contamination is believed to have killed the fish in the rivers.

In a post on his official Facebook account, he said he wants a thorough probe to ensure there is no repeat of the Sungai Kim Kim incident.

He added that the relevant authorities should submit an immediate report on the pollution of the two rivers.

“Carry out the investigation, and I want a report immediately on the matter. Those involved must be held responsible for the pollution of the rivers. This (polluting of the rivers) is an irresponsible act,” he said.

In a related development, Simpang Renggam MP Maszlee Malik, who is the education minister, is expected to visit Sungai Benut today.

Chemical waste dumped into Sungai Kim Kim recently resulted in the release of toxic fumes that sent about 1,000 people to hospital, forced the closure of all 111 schools in Pasir Gudang and necessitated a massive clean-up of the river.

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