Many reach out to help rescue workers

PASIR GUDANG: The chemical pollution here has drawn out the best in people, with many coming forward to offer help and provide items such as drinks, food, masks and goodie bags.

Yesterday, the Melaka state government provided over 1,000 masks and goodie bags to rescue personnel involved in the operation.

The aid was delivered by state Health and Anti-Drugs Committee chairman Low Chee Leong, who visited the operation centre at the Pasir Gudang Indoor Stadium and presented the items to state Fire and Rescue director Datuk Yahaya Madis and his deputy Puzan Ahmad.Calling it a small token for the rescue personnel who have been working around the clock in the area, Low said he hoped the incident would come to an end soon.

He said he came to observe the operation as this would be a “test case” not just for Johor, but also for other states with chemical industries.

“We hope to learn from this incident and better manage our industrial estates in Melaka,” he said, adding that the Department of Environment was tasked with carrying out regular checks to ensure that there was no threat.

There are at least 250 chemical factories in Pasir Gudang alone.

Low, who also gave out face masks during the Sg Kim Kim crisis three months ago, said he would not hesitate to provide more help.

Non-governmental group Persa­tuan Ikhlas Johor Baru has been supplying food, water and even coconuts to the rescue personnel.

Its chairman George Wilson said they had supplied 100 coconuts, adding: “Coconut water helps to keep fluid and electrolyte balance in the body.”

“We bought the coconuts for RM2.80 each from donations by our members. We hope this simple gesture will in some way improve the situation.”