ALOR SETAR: The Kedah Environment Department issued an Equipment Operation Suspension Order against a rice mill in Yan for causing air pollution and discomfort to the local community.
Its director, Sharifah Zakiah Syed Saha,b said the mill was ordered to cease operations immediately after an inspection on Saturday (March 15) following public complaints.
"The suspension order was imposed under Section 38(1)(a) of the Environmental Quality Act 1974 after it was found that the air pollution control equipment had malfunctioned and was leaking, leading to significant air pollution in the surrounding area," she said in a statement Sunday (March 16).
She added that Notices under Sections 31 and 37 of the Act have been issued, requiring the mill to undertake immediate repairs and maintenance during the suspension period.
"The mill will only be allowed to resume operations once the department is satisfied with the corrective measures taken. Industrial operators are reminded to fully comply with the Environmental Quality Act 1974 to prevent environmental pollution.
"The public is encouraged to report any environmental pollution activities via the toll-free hotline at 1-800-88-2727, email aduan_k@doe.gov.my, or the department's e-complaint portal at https://eaduan.doe.gov.my," she added. – Bernama
