Johor authorities find no pollution in Sungai Simpang Kiri

The Johor state government has confirmed that water samples from Sungai Simpang Kiri in Pontian show no signs of pollution from heavy metals, toxic substances, oil, or grease. The findings, presented by the Pontian District Coordination Committee, follow concerns regarding waste from Singapore.

Despite the official findings, local fishermen have expressed dissatisfaction. Sahrizal Sirang, Chairman of the Sungai Simpang Kiri Fishermen's Association, claimed the issue has persisted since last year, noting a significant decline in shrimp catches and daily income. He argued that earlier investigations might have captured the water when it was black and foul-smelling.

Separately, SWCorp Johor has opened four investigations into landowners suspected of involvement in illegal construction waste dumping from Singapore. Authorities stated that waste must be disposed of at licensed sites and cannot be dumped on roadsides, in rivers, or on vacant land. The movement of waste-carrying vehicles was halted following action by Singapore's National Environment Agency (NEA).