Why are residents protesting an unapproved landfill site in Batu Empat?

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Residents Protest Unapproved Landfill Due to Odour Pollution and Safety Concerns

Residents in Batu Empat, Kota Tinggi, are protesting an unapproved landfill site that has been operating for over 20 years, citing severe odour pollution, a proliferation of flies, and significant safety risks. The environmental and health impacts have affected more than 10 villages, involving approximately 5,000 residents, who are demanding the authorities shut down or relocate the facility.
Persistent Odour and Fly Infestation Affecting Daily Life

The primary driver of the residents' protest is the unbearable stench emanating from the landfill, which has made daily life difficult for those living in the surrounding villages, including Kampung Desa Makmur. The persistent odour pollution is compounded by a significant fly infestation, forcing residents to keep their doors and windows closed at all times. This environmental degradation has been ongoing for two decades, leading some residents to abandon their homes in search of cleaner living conditions.
Concerns Over Unsanctioned Operations and External Waste Disposal

A key point of contention is that the 4.2-hectare landfill site has never been officially approved or gazetted by the state government for waste disposal. Residents claim that the rubbish being dumped at the site originates from outside the Kota Tinggi district, adding to their grievance. The long-term operation of an unapproved facility raises questions about regulatory oversight and the management of waste streams within the region.
Safety Hazards Posed by Constant Garbage Truck Traffic

Beyond the environmental issues, residents have raised serious safety concerns related to the constant presence of garbage trucks. The daily influx of these large vehicles has led to congestion, with trucks often parked on both sides of the road, obstructing visibility at village entrances. This poses a particular danger to parents sending their children to school, as the blocked views increase the risk of accidents involving the heavy traffic.
Demand for Immediate Action from Authorities

The affected communities have organised peaceful gatherings and plan to submit a memorandum to the Johor Menteri Besar, Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, to highlight their plight. Their core demand is for the authorities to take decisive action by either permanently closing the landfill or relocating it to a different site. The residents express that their patience has run out, and they can no longer tolerate the detrimental conditions caused by the unapproved landfill.

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Why are residents protesting an unapproved landfill site in Batu Empat?

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