By Zaki Salleh
IPOH – Allegations concerning pollution of the Perak and Rui rivers around Gerik and Lenggong are not a minor issue and should be taken seriously.
Therefore, an immediate and comprehensive investigation should be conducted by the relevant authorities to address the many questions surrounding the issue.
Parti Bangsa Malaysia (PBM) Environment Bureau chief Abd Razak Ismail said concerns had arisen following reports of changes in the colour of the river water, fish deaths and allegations of high arsenic content.
He said the issue must be taken seriously as it also involves food safety, public health and the livelihoods of inland fishermen.
“PBM calls on the Department of Environment (DOE), Department of Minerals and Geosciences, Department of Fisheries and relevant agencies to conduct water sampling at several locations.
“The tests should also cover arsenic, mercury, lead, cadmium and other relevant pollutants.
“In addition to water, fish samples from the affected areas should also be tested to determine the possibility of pollutant accumulation,” he said in a statement.
Abd Razak said the source of the pollution must be identified by tracing the condition of the rivers from upstream to downstream.
He said the test results should be disclosed transparently, including the locations, dates, parameters and laboratory findings, so that the public could understand the actual situation.
He said a scientific study on arsenic in two villages in Gerik published in 2023 should also be given attention, without concluding that it was linked to the current incident.
“PBM also calls on the government to pay attention to the plight of inland fishermen who may lose their source of income if river pollution is confirmed.
“Temporary assistance should be considered for affected fishermen while investigations and rehabilitation efforts are being carried out.
“PBM also urges enforcement action to be taken if investigations find that laws relating to pollution have been violated,” he said.
Abd Razak said the issue should not be regarded solely as a state-level problem as the Perak River is an important environmental asset.
“Authorities should not simply come down, take samples and then allow the issue to go quiet. Continuous monitoring must instead be carried out,” he said.
PBM stressed that early action must be taken to ensure the Perak River remains a source of livelihood, food and heritage for future generations.
