Group to hold protest against waste-to-energy plant project

KTI chairman Lee Chong Tek (front row, fifth from left), Sun Song Hoo (sixth from left) and other residents objecting to the proposed waste-to-energy (WTE) plant at Taman Beringin.

THE Kuala Lumpur Tak Nak Incinerator (KTI) Action committee is considering a peaceful protest if the proposed waste-to-energy (WTE) plant at Taman Beringin, Kuala Lumpur project is approved.

They will even consider taking legal action should the said project goes ahead.

KTI chairman Lee Chong Tek said the group, who had been objecting the project since 2013, will hold a protest to highlight residents disapproval of the project.

“We will bring this to court and obtain an injunction against the project,” he added.

“These are our homes that we live with our families and loved ones, the effects of the smoke fumes will be more than just an unpleasant feeling,” he said, during a press conference held at Taman Residensi Community Hall, Kuala Lumpur.

Lee was referring to a StarMetro article dated Nov 6 on an interview with National Solid Waste Management Department (JPSPN) that a proposed waste-to-energy (WTE) plant is to be incorporated into the Kuala Lumpur Transfer Station in Taman Beringin.

Lee also highlighted several concerns over the matter, saying it would affect nearby residents and the environment.

“The statement issued by the department is not convincing as it lacked scientific proof to back claims.

“We think that the statement was biased and was not in favour of the residents as more information is needed to back its argument,” he said.

Lee said JPSPN’s target of generating 25 to 30 megawatts of electricity per hour for every 1,000 tonnes of waste burned at the energy plant was too optimistic and urged the government to back up its claims with scientific proof.

“The article compared the amount of waste-to-energy plant and incinerators in Malaysia and Japan but the latter lacked land space and has three times more population compared to Malaysia.

“I believe the zero-waste management approach and increasing awareness of recycling is more suitable here,” he added.

About 15 Taman Residensi residents and the action group members attended the press conference.

Polluted air will result in health issues in the community and with a rise in healthcare costs, things are going to be very difficult and undesirable,” said Sun Song Hoo, a resident.

The project costing between RM700mil and RM900mil is to be built on 1.62ha next to the existing transfer station.

It is a partnership between the Government and private corporations and the project is now at the final stage of tender, which involves detailed negotiation of the contract document.