PORT DICKSON: Poor planning is one of the factors that contributed to the contamination of Sungai Kim Kim in Pasir Gudang, Johor, said Port Dickson Member of Parliament Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said the current incident served as a great reminder on the safety factor and the toxic waste disposal that should not be taken lightly.
“This is a huge and a very serious catastrophe. It’s not a natural disaster but it’s due to poor planning.
“As we try to attract investors, we cannot side line this issue. The safety of the people and our children should be given utmost priority,” he said when asked to comment on the chemical pollution in Pasir Gudang.
To date, a total of 2,775 victims have been treated due to the pollution, while 111 schools and 92 kindergartens and nurseries have been closed.
When asked further, Anwar however admitted that he could not comment further on the issue and said responsible minister had taken immediate action to control the situation.
“Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and his deputy too have gone down to the ground to check on the situation,” he said.
He added that it is also high time for stern and aggressive actions to be taken against any individuals who committed any form of environment pollutions.