LETTERS: The recent revelation by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof that 25 of the 672 rivers monitored nationwide by the Department of Environment are classified as polluted underscores a persistent and alarming environmental challenge in Malaysia.
The polluted rivers are in Kedah, Penang, Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Johor, and Sarawak. This demands urgent attention and sustainable solutions.
Like in other countries, it is primarily driven by anthropogenic activities, including industrial discharge, domestic waste, and commercial activities.
Sungai Bakar Arang in Kedah and Sungai Jawi in Penang are polluted by wastewater effluents that contain organic pollutants.
Industrial facilities often bypass environmental regulations, leading to the release of untreated or poorly treated waste into river systems.
It resulted in rivers being classified under Water Quality Index (WQI) Classes III and IV, indicating poor water quality unfit for human use and harmful to aquatic life.
Domestic waste is another major contributor. Rapid urbanisation has led to increased generation of household waste that finds its way into rivers due to inadequate waste management systems.
In Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, Sungai Buloh and Sungai Kerayong are heavily impacted by urban run-off containing household detergents, food waste, and other pollutants.
Agricultural run-off rich in fertilizers and pesticides also contributes significantly to river pollution, particularly in states like Johor, resulting in the leaching of chemicals into nearby water bodies, further exacerbating the degradation of water quality.
River pollution is a recurring issue due to several factors:
WEAK ENFORCEMENT
Industries and urban centres often evade stringent pollution control measures, leading to repeated instances of contamination.
LACK OF PUBLIC AWARENESS
Improper disposal of household waste and unchecked use of chemical products continue unabated.
INSUFFICIENT WASTE MANAGEMENT INFRASTRUCTURE
Due to the large volume of waste generated, it overflows into natural water bodies.
BAD PRIORITIES
Economic growth is prioritised over environmental sustainability resulting in insufficient investment in pollution control technologies and sustainable practices.
Polluted rivers lead to the destruction of aquatic ecosystems, leading to a loss of biodiversity.
Polluted rivers pose significant health risks. Waterborne diseases such as cholera, dysentery, and typhoid become prevalent in communities reliant on river water.
Long-term exposure can lead to chronic health issues, including cancers and neurological disorders due to heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants.
The degradation of rivers affects livelihoods for fishing and tourism communities, making it less attractive for recreational activities, leading to a decline in tourism revenue.
And the cost of treating polluted water for safe consumption increases, placing a financial burden on municipalities and, ultimately, taxpayers.
Here are key strategies to address river pollution in Malaysia:
1. The government must enhance the enforcement of existing environmental laws including regular monitoring of industrial activities and imposing stricter penalties for non-compliance.
2. Raise awareness of the importance of river health and promoting sustainable practices. Educational campaigns can empower individuals to take responsibility for their waste and reduce their environmental footprint.
3. Invest in robust waste management systems including developing efficient recycling programmes, waste treatment facilities, and ensuring proper disposal of industrial effluents.
4. Adopt Integrated River Basin Management (IRBM) action plans can foster a holistic approach to river management by coordinating efforts across various sectors and stakeholders to manage and protect river basins effectively.
5. The development and implementation of tools like the Artificial Intelligence River Rating and Ranking System (AiR3S) can enhance monitoring and provide real-time data on river health, helping prompt decision-making and targeted interventions.
6. Encouraging community participation in river conservation efforts can lead to more sustainable outcomes. Local groups can play a pivotal role in monitoring river health and advocating for environmental protection.
The health of our rivers is a reflection of our environmental stewardship, and it is imperative that we act now to preserve these vital ecosystems for future generations.
TAN SRI LEE LAM THYE
Chairman
Alliance For A Safe Community
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times