Public attitude, increased population contribute to river pollution, says Xavier

Updated 5 years ago · Published on 14 Oct 2018 6:26PM · 1 Comments

Xavier Jayakumar says the most polluted rivers are in Kelantan, Pahang, Kedah and Perak. – The Malaysian Insight file pic, October 14, 2018.

THE irresponsible attitude of local residents, increased population and logging activities are among the factors that contribute to river pollution in Kuala Lumpur and several other areas in the country, said Water, Land and Natural Resources Minister Xavier Jayakumar.

He said the ministry, through its various agencies, will continue to play their role to conserve and preserve the environment.

As such, close cooperation between the ministry and the state governments, as well as the relevant ministries, is crucial to intensify efforts to educate and make the public aware of the importance of keeping their rivers clean.

They should not throw rubbish in the rivers, he said at the World Rivers Day event today.

Also present was Federal Territories Minister Khalid Samad.

According to Xavier, the most polluted rivers are in Kelantan, Pahang, Kedah and Perak, and the problem is caused by logging activities.

Meanwhile, Khalid said the Federal Territories Ministry was committed to continue with the River of Life (ROL) project, expected to cost RM4 billion.

“ROL is a programme intended to change the landscape of Kuala Lumpur, improving the quality of life of riverside residents in the capital city, as well as to boost the economy.

“However, the investment will be meaningless if there is no assistance and awareness from the public to maintain (cleanliness) and appreciate our rivers,” he said.

The ROL, which was launched in 2011, is a pioneer project under the Greater Kuala Lumpur/Klang Valley initiative and will make Kuala Lumpur a world-class city.

It is aimed at reviving the Klang River and Gombak River within the city and transforming the banks into waterfront areas with economic and commercial value through river cleaning, beautification and land development.

Khalid also advised the public to lodge reports on activities carried out by any quarters that contributed to river pollution.

He said they can so through an application called “Citizen’s Eye”, which can be downloaded onto their smartphones. – Bernama, October 14, 2018. 

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  • Clean rivers start with individual. All water ends in the rivers and oceans so make sure tge waste water you produce at home, at work, in restaurants is as clean as it can be when it goes into the drain. Keep plastic to a minimum and dispose of it properly. The government is responsible for cleaning all effluent entering rivers either through water treatment plants or enforcement of water treatment at all places of business. But if everyone takes responsibility, it cuts costs and makes processing waste water cheaper.

    Posted 5 years ago by Malaysia New hope · Reply