THE Pulau Burung landfill fire incident in Nibong Tebal should be a lesson for all parties, says Penang executive councillor Phee Boon Poh.
Phee, who is in charge of the Welfare and Environment portfolio, said it is pointless to play the blame game as everyone shares a collective responsibility.
“We should not be pointing fingers at anyone because what matters now is what we can do to prevent such incidents from happening again.
“On behalf of the state government, we have identified some weaknesses in the waste management process handled by PLB Terang Sdn Bhd, the company managing the Pulau Burung landfill.
“The state government also has instructed Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) to look into possible actions that can be taken against the company, including terminating the concession agreement.
“After all, we want to ensure that there will be a systematic approach in terms of the solid waste management at the landfill after this,” Phee told Buletin Mutiara when contacted today.
He was commenting on the recent fire at the Pulau Burung landfill that was reportedly put out yesterday (Feb 2) after burning for 20 days.
Phee also would like to express his utmost gratitude and appreciation to the frontliners involved during the operation to extinguish the fire at the landfill.
“They include Fire and Rescue Services Department (JPBM), MBSP, Department of Environment (DoE), South Seberang Perai District Disaster Management Committee and many others for playing their parts during the operation.
“Special thanks also to Jawi assemblyman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye and his service centre for providing some assistance to the affected residents there.
“Without their help, the fire at the landfill might still continue burning until now. Thus, I would like to thank all of them,” he added.
On behalf of the state government, Phee also apologised to the residents who are affected by the landfill fire incident.
“Rest assured, we are doing our best to prevent such incident from happening again,” he said.
Phee added that all affected residents who have been instructed to move to a temporary relief centre will not be allowed to return to their homes yet until the air quality index reading is back to normal.
“The current report from DOE regarding the air quality index has shown some improvement.
“As of now, the air quality index at the area is around 70 compared with a blistering 145 on Jan 29. The situation is getting better.
“However, they need to wait for further instruction from the authority,” he added.
Meanwhile, H’ng, when contacted today, said the situation at the Pulau Burung landfill is under control now.
“I was informed that a team from JPBM, MBSP and landfill operator also is still on duty round the clock at the landfill to monitor the situation from time to time.
“My service centre also always keeps in touch with the affected residents to help them in any way that we can,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis