JAS to take action on open burning activities in Setia Alam

SHAH ALAM - Open burning of plastics at an oil palm plantation in Setia Alam, here, by irresponsible individuals has angered the Association for the Protection of the Natural Heritage of Malaysia (Peka).

The association was demanding for answers on why people were refusing to go by the rules and regulations of open burning.

Environment and Water Minister Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man today tweeted that he had received complaints via social media with social media users tagging him over the matter.

The issue, he said was brought up by Peka on Facebook and the complaints have been brought to the Environmental Department (JAS) chief director's attention.

He added that open burning had caused pollution and would disrupt the lives of the residents in Setia Alam since the distance between the residential area and the illegal landfills were only about 1.09km away from each other.

“The landfill contained domestic wastes and the area was not secured with gates and there were no sign boards or notices on the prohibition of land encroachment.

“Investigations with the help of drones found that there were over 100 illegal settlements located less than 100 meters from the landfill which could be the cause of illegal waste dumping.

“The case is being investigated under Section 29A of the Environmental Quality Act 1974 and the owner of the land will be identified," he said.

He added that the case had also been referred to the Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) for further action as this was under its jurisdiction.