Pontian authorities investigate construction waste reclamation activities

Authorities in Johor have opened three investigation papers following reports that construction waste brought from Singapore for land reclamation activities has caused structural damage to residential homes in Pontian.

Eight homeowners in Kampung Simpang Kiri, Mukim Sungai Karang, are seeking compensation, claiming their houses have developed cracks due to heavy vibrations from convoys of trucks transporting waste over the last two years. One resident reported spending over RM7,000 on repairs to various parts of his home.

Datuk Mohd. Jafni Md. Shukor, Chairman of the Johor Housing and Local Government Committee, stated that nine companies have been identified as being involved in these reclamation activities. Local authorities have ordered an immediate halt to operations at several identified sites.

Integrated enforcement efforts involving the police, SWCorp, and the Department of Environment will continue. While the state government has stopped the land reclamation activities, officials noted that homeowners seeking compensation for damages may need to pursue legal action to prove the link between the activities and the structural issues.