The operating permit of a factory carrying out metal and e-waste recycling activities in the Industrial Area 2, near Segamat, Johor was suspended immediately today after it was found to have caused air pollution.

State local government, urban well-being and environment committee chairperson Tan Cheng Choon said the action was taken against the premises after an integrated operation on Wednesday.

He said this following complaints of air pollution recently which was believed to have affected the well-being of residents in Kampung Baru Kwongsai, Tenang and Labis.

An investigation by the Segamat Municipal Council (MPS) found the premises had a trading permit which was approved by MPS and there were no floutings of the stipulated conditions.

In addition, the premises had also been licensed by the Environment Department (DOE) of Johor for a full recovery of e-waste.

‘’However, investigations found that the factory had flouted the Environment Quality Act 1974 through an increase in the system to process metal without the permission of DOE and without proper control.

‘’As such, DOE has taken action to stop the operations of the factory equipment and suspended its operating permit,’’ he said in a statement just now.

- Bernama