How does the premise endanger over 10,000 residents?

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The Premise Endangers Over 10,000 Residents Through Air Pollution and Proximity to a Gas Pipeline

An illegal scrap metal recycling premise in Kampung Maju Jaya, Kempas, has been ordered to cease operations due to significant risks posed to over 10,000 residents in four nearby villages. The primary dangers stem from open burning activities conducted at the site, which generate air pollution, and its close proximity to an underground gas pipeline owned by Petronas, creating a potential explosion hazard.
Open Burning Activities Cause Air Pollution

The premise, operating for over five years on land zoned for agricultural purposes, was found to be engaged in open burning of various waste materials, including construction debris. This practice releases harmful pollutants into the atmosphere. Burning scrap metal, in particular, can generate toxic fumes such as dioxins, furans, and heavy metals like lead and mercury. These airborne contaminants can travel considerable distances, impacting the air quality in surrounding residential areas and potentially causing respiratory issues and other health problems for the local population.
Proximity to Petronas Gas Pipeline Poses Explosion Risk

A significant safety concern is the premise's location approximately 150 metres from an underground gas pipeline operated by Petronas. Open burning activities at the scrap metal site increase the risk of fires and potential explosions. Such an event near a high-pressure gas pipeline could have catastrophic consequences, endangering the lives of the more than 10,000 residents living in the four adjacent villages. While a technical inspection by Petronas confirmed the pipeline's current safe condition, the ongoing illegal burning activities represent a persistent threat to its integrity and the safety of the community.
Land Use Violations and Regulatory Action

The Johor government's decision to order the shutdown follows an investigation that revealed violations of land usage conditions, as the 3.4-hectare site was being used for waste collection and burning despite being zoned for agriculture. Authorities have initiated action to locate the land's owner, a Singaporean national, who allegedly rented the site to the entrepreneur operating the illegal premise. The land tenant and three Bangladeshi workers involved in the operation have been remanded to assist in investigations, and the premise has been sealed. The Johor Solid Waste Management Corporation (SWCorp) is also conducting an investigation under the Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Act 2007.

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How does the premise endanger over 10,000 residents?

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