MPOB orders Pahang mill to halt operation over river pollution

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) has ordered a palm oil mill in Ulu Keratong, Pahang to halt operation immediately over alleged river pollution.

MPOB director-general Dr Ahmad Parveez Ghulam Kadir said the order was issued in accordance with the notice of instruction under Section 31 of the Environmental Quality Act 1974 by the Department of Environment’s (DOE) Rompin branch.

“The palm oil mill was instructed to stop its operation immediately until the notice of instruction is withdrawn by the DOE.”

Media reports stated that the DOE had acted against the palm oil mill after an inspection by the department and Pengurusan Air Pahang Bhd found that it was the source of pollution in Sungai Pukin.

According to reports, the incident stemmed from the bank of one of the palm oil effluent treatment ponds collapsing, causing the waste to flow into the river.

Parveez said failure to comply with the order could result in the company’s licence being suspended, revoked or not renewed under Regulation 15 (1), MPOB (Licensing) Regulations 2005.

“MPOB urges palm oil mills to comply with regulations of the MPOB and DOE on environmental protection at all times, especially during the implementation of the Movement Control Order," he added.

Parveez said the MPOB had been working with the DOE to curb environmental pollution.

“The MPOB constantly monitors and conducts regular inspections on palm oil mills to ensure compliance,” he added.