River polluters may face mandatory jail

GEORGE TOWN: The Environmental Quality Act (EQA) 1974 will be amended in phases to ensure stricter action can be taken against environmental criminals, including those who pollute the rivers.

The Environment and Water Ministry, through the Department of Environment (DoE), said the first phase would involve increasing the maximum and minimum fines and penalties, and mandatory imprisonment to ensure stricter action could be taken against offenders.

The DoE, in a written response to the New Straits Times following its revelation that the majority of Penang's rivers were in Class III, said the amendments to the act were awaiting review and approval from the Attorney-General's Chambers.

"The Phase 2 amendments involve a comprehensive strengthening of the act and are being refined by experts and other stakeholders," it said. -BERNAMA