Johor allocates RM2 million to restore Sungai Buluh and Sungai Tukang Batu, targeting their removal from the polluted rivers list by 2027.
JOHOR BAHRU: The Johor State Government has allocated RM2 million to restore two of its most polluted rivers.
State Health and Environment Committee chairman Ling Tian Soon said the initiative targets Sungai Buluh and Sungai Tukang Batu.
The project aims to remove both rivers from the polluted category by 2027 through collaboration with the Pasir Gudang City Council and the state Department of Environment.
Improvement works include riverbed excavation and construction of effective microorganisms auto-dosing stations.
The project also involves the Low Carbon City Frameworks initiative with local industries.
Ling confirmed the project began in September and is expected for completion this December.
Implementation status has currently reached 70%.
He stated these two rivers represent the beginning of broader water quality improvement efforts.
“If this project is successful, we will try to bring this initiative to other rivers,” he told reporters after opening the National Environment Day Celebration 2025 at state level.
The carbon emission rate by industry is also being monitored by the Pasir Gudang City Council.
Monitoring covers electricity use, wastewater management and industrial area greening initiatives.
Real-time water and air quality monitoring will be implemented throughout the administrative area.
Several strategic locations have been identified for focused attention.
These include pollution complaint areas, hotspots and high-risk sensitive locations.
The Department of Environment will ensure monitoring and enforcement at all involved locations.
This includes ensuring industrial wastewater discharges comply with set conditions.
Ling stressed the state government’s commitment to restoring all nine polluted rivers in the district.
He called on all parties to cooperate in preserving and conserving the environment. – Bernama
