By Zareef Muzammil
SHAH ALAM, Sept 7 — Selangor state representatives are in support of the proposal to increase the maximum fine to RM1 million on river pollutants to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
Taman Templer assemblyman Mohd Sany Hamzan had even suggested that the amount should be increased to RM2 million as well as a mandatory jail sentence for the perpetrators.
"River pollution is becoming more prevalent because the perpetrators took the easy way out by releasing chemicals into the river without following the Department of Environment’s standard operating procedures after making millions of ringgit in profit.
"The perpetrators should be severely punished as a deterrent to others to never ever pollute the source of raw water in Selangor," he said when contacted.
On Saturday, Menteri Besar Dato' Seri Amirudin Shari stated that the maximum fine for river pollutant offences will be increased from RM500,000 to RM1 million through an amendment to the Selangor Water Management Authority (Luas) Enactment 1999.
The motion will be tabled in the next State Legislative Assembly session scheduled in October to November.
Meanwhile, Subang Jaya State assemblyman Michelle Ng Mei Sze said two elements needed to be taken into account, namely setting a minimum fine of RM200,000 and a mandatory jail sentence.
"Even if the fine is increased to RM1 million, the court can set the fine at RM1, RM10 or RM10,000. So, a minimum rate should be set as a guide to determine the appropriate amount.
"Those who abetted, such as truck drivers and executors of the order, should also be subjected to the same punishment because their actions harm millions of people," he said.
Banting assemblyman Lau Weng San had considered the amendment to the enactment as relevant and saw the need for it to be done soon to prevent serious disruption to the water supply in the Klang Valley.
"The amendment to this enactment must not only increase the fine but also includes imprisonment because they (the perpetrators) could afford to pay the fine," he said.
Kampung Tunku assemblyman Lim Yi Wei had also supported raising the maximum fine to RM1 million as she said the current rate is not sufficient.
"During the prosecution process, all aspects need to be taken into account and we have to make them (offenders) feel the pain and not repeat the same offence," he said.
