SUNGAI PETANI: A plastic waste recycling plant operated by a Chinese national was fined RM50,000 by the Sungai Petani Sessions Court for operating without an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) approval.
Judge Roslan Hamid imposed the fine after the company's manager, representing the firm as the accused, pleaded guilty to the charge.
Kedah Department of Environment (DoE) director Sharifah Zakiah Syed Sahab said the case followed an enforcement operation on Dec 18 last year.
She said inspections found the plant in Pinang Tunggal had been recycling plastic waste without the required EIA approval.
"The offence falls under Section 34A(6) of the Environmental Quality Act 1974 and carries a penalty under Section 34A(8), which includes a fine of up to RM500,000 or imprisonment of up to five years, or both," she said in a statement today.
The manager requested a lighter sentence, claiming the company had ceased operations.
However, the prosecution sought an appropriate penalty, arguing that the case arose from public complaints.
"The company's activities caused air pollution and odour nuisances, disturbing residents of Taman Seraya, Pinang Tunggal, located less than 300 metres from the plant," Sharifah Zakiah added.
She said the inspection also found the plant was discharging untreated wastewater directly into a nearby river.
"The company was issued a Prohibition Order under Section 34AA of the Environmental Quality Act 1974 on March 4, for operating without EIA approval," she added.
Commenting further, Sharifah Zakiah urged investors to seek guidance from the authorities before proceeding with projects.
"Industries must comply with the Environmental Quality Act 1974 at all times," she said.