Nobody told me about a Sungai Rui task force, says Perak Environment Committee chairman

IPOH: There was no mention of setting up a special task force to handle pollution in Sungai Rui, says Perak Environment Committee chairman Dr Abdul Aziz Bari (pic).

He said he did not know about the taskforce until a few people reached out to him.

"They asked about the task force, but since I am not involved, I did not have any information.

"I am not saying I should be the chairman, but since I am part of the government, I believe I should not be excluded.

"As far as I can remember, this matter has not been discussed during exco meetings," he told The Star here on Saturday (April 6).

On Thursday (April 4), low levels of arsenic were found in water samples taken from Sungai Rui in Hulu Perak.

Dr Abdul Aziz said the amount was not considered as dangerous but the state had taken steps to prevent the situation from becoming serious.

However, nearby villagers claimed the quality of water from Sungai Rui had degraded and they had stopped swimming in the murky river for more than a decade.

Dr Abdul Aziz added that the government had no plans to put a stop to mining activities at the area.

"Putting a stop would be too far-fetched. The mining has been done for years and since we want to be a business-friendly government, we will not stop it.

"I was told that some operators are aware of arsenic pollution in Sungai Rui and they are trying to do something about it.

"My suggestion is that perhaps these operators can extend their services and help the nearby community as part of their corporate social responsibility," he added.

It was reported that State Drainage and Irrigation Department (JPS) director Datuk Dr Ahmad Anuar Othman had said the task force comprised several state departments, including JPS.

"Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu had set up a task force to handle the problem.

"JPS is working together with several other departments such as the Mineral and Geosciences Department, the Water Board (LAP) and the Health Department.

"All departments are working hand-in-hand to resolve the problem at Sungai Rui. Action will be taken in accordance with the agreed methods," Ahmad Anuar said when contacted Friday (April 5).- Star