GEORGE TOWN – The Environmental Quality Act 1974 will be amended in phases to ensure stricter action can be taken against environmental criminals, including those who pollute the nation’s rivers.
The Environment and Water Ministry, through the Environment Department, said the first phase would involve increasing the maximum and minimum fines and penalties, as well as introducing mandatory imprisonment, to ensure stricter action could be taken against offenders.
The department, in a written response to the New Straits Times following its revelation that the majority of Penang’s rivers were in Class III, which requires more advanced treatment before being used as a water source, said the amendments to the Act were awaiting review and approval from the Attorney-General’s Chambers.
“The Phase 2 amendments involve a comprehensive strengthening of the Act and are being refined by experts and other stakeholders,” it said. – Bernama, June 1, 2022
_-_PSI_EIA_receives_approval_from_DoE_-_PIC_FB.jpg)
