JOHOR BARU: Several unidentified packages were discovered near Sungai Pandan, close to Taman Daya, which has been affected by chemical odour pollution.

The transparent white packages were found at around 10am and emitted a smell similar to the one detected in Kampung Melayu Pandan on Tuesday.

State Health and Environment Committee chairman Ling Tian Soon said the Environment Department (DoE) has collected samples from the packages and sent them to the Chemistry Department for analysis.

"After an investigation by the fire department yesterday, the matter was handed over to the DoE for further action and investigation.

"DoE Johor has also set up safety barriers at the site and is currently monitoring air quality in the area," he said in a statement today.

Tian Soon added that the authorities are taking the chemical odour pollution seriously and will continue to inspect the surrounding areas of Sungai Pandan and its tributaries to identify the source of the contamination.

"I urge the public to act as the 'eyes and ears' of the DoE. If anyone witnesses individuals illegally dumping industrial waste or chemicals, please report it immediately to the DoE.

"I would like to remind everyone that any industry or individual found guilty of intentionally dumping chemicals can be prosecuted under the Environmental Quality Act (Amendment) 2024, which carries penalties of up to five years in prison, a fine of up to RM10 million, or both," he said.

Yesterday, DoE Johor detected high levels of ammonia gas exceeding normal limits in the Sungai Pandan area in Kampung Melayu Pandan, causing odour pollution.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/crime-courts/2024/09/1101890/chemical-odour-pollution-jb-several-unidentified-packages-found