MELAKA: Thousands of freshwater fish have died along Phase Two of Sungai Melaka, likely due to pollution, says Low Chee Leong.
The Melaka rural development, agriculture and food security committee deputy chairman said the incident was reported at 10.30pm on Thursday (June 26).
“The state has directed all relevant agencies to take immediate action to control the situation and protect the environment,” he said on Friday (June 27).
Low, who is also the Kota Laksamana assemblyman, said the Melaka River and Beach Development Corporation (PPSPM) had mobilised more than 30 employees to carry out comprehensive cleaning work along the affected area, jointly with the Historical Melaka City Council (MBMB).
He said the clean-up began early Friday after the Melaka Water Regulatory Body (BKSA) completed the collection of water and fish samples for investigation.
“PPSPM is committed to completing the clean-up as swiftly as possible, while BKSA has also launched an emergency operation.
“Initial observations found an oily-like substance on the surface of the river, raising concerns over possible pollution,” he added.
Low said detection efforts were underway, including monitoring from the Batu Hampar area to the industrial zone near the river’s upper reaches.
“A thorough investigation is being conducted by the BKSA enforcement team, and punitive action will be taken if any party is found responsible for the unlawful discharge of pollutants,” he said.
A check along the river at 8.30pm on Friday revealed that the water had turned black and emitted a foul odour.
