IPOH: Three mining plants that were previously ordered to suspend operations in connection with the bluish hue in Sungai Perak have resumed activities after receiving a clearance letter on Jan 13, says Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
The Perak Mentri Besar said the clearance was issued following the completion of investigations into the matter.
He said the suspension was imposed earlier to allow relevant authorities to determine the cause of the incident, which was believed to be linked to violations of standard operating procedures (SOPs) by companies involved, whether intentional or otherwise.
“The investigations were carried out by technical departments, and approval to resume operations was only granted after the authorities were satisfied that the issues had been addressed.
“I would like to stress that all companies must strictly adhere to SOPs, and there should not be any attempts to bypass regulations, even temporarily.
“Sometimes SOP compliance involves costs, and in an effort to reduce expenses, there may be attempts to violate procedures, perhaps just for a day, “ he told reporters after attending an Anti-Corruption and integrity convention and launch of the state level “Keep Malaysia Clean” event held at the state secretariat building here Monday (Jan 26).
Saarani added that the state government would take a firm stance against any non-compliance, particularly involving mining activities related to natural resources and the environment, which carry potential risks such as higher radioactive exposure.
“The health and lives of the people will always take precedence over revenue from mining activities,” he said, adding that strict enforcement is necessary to prevent a recurrence of similar incidents.
He acknowledged that companies affected by suspension orders also suffer financial losses, as they are required to continue paying salaries despite having no income during the shutdown period.
“I understand that these companies have complained about losses incurred during the suspension.
“But this only reinforces our message, that all regulations must be complied with at all times,” he said.
On Oct 21, last year, a video of Sungai Perak near Kampung Sungai Papan, Gerik, turning blue went viral.
On Nov 5, Saarani said the government had ordered three mining operations near the site to temporarily halt activities pending investigations.
