SAM Concerned of Residents Health
Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM) is concerned of the health of more than 1,000 residents of Kampung Batu 19, Ayer Tawar in Manjung District, state of Perak due to prolonged exposure to air pollution from a factory and infestation of flies here.
The source of problem is a poultry farm and glove factory operating here. The affected residents who have been suffering from these problems for more than 15 years had lodged complaints several times but to no avail.
SAM’s survey found that in addition to the villagers, residents of Taman Iswara and Ladang Bilham were also plagued by the fly problem and air pollution from the glove factory.
The flies not only infest the houses but also the food outlets and vegetable stalls in this area.
The residents here informed SAM that the glove factory operates 24 hours and that the factory releases thick smoke at night. When this happens, the residents have breathing difficulties. The residents were worried that the thick smoke engulfing the area is poisonous and harmful to health.
SAM was also informed that there were occasions where fishes have been found dead in the drains near the factory, believed to have been caused by effluents discharged from the factory.
In view of these environmental problems, SAM urges the Department of Environment of Perak and Manjung Municipal Council to investigate the complaint immediately. Stringent action must be taken under the Environmental Quality Act 1974 if the factory was found to have breached the regulations.
SAM also calls upon the Department of Irrigation and Drainage, Health Department and the Veterinary Services Department to conduct surveillance in this area to ensure that the situation is under control and the area is free from environmental pollution.
S.M.MOHAMED IDRIS
President
