Klebang: A total of 11 complaints related to pollution in Sungai Lereh have been lodged by the local community and fishermen between November 8, 2024, and March 1 this year. Klebang assemblyman Datuk Lim Ban Hong announced that the pollution has caused the river water to turn black and foul-smelling, affecting the fishing activities of 85 fishermen in the area.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the fishermen have reported experiencing skin irritation and other conditions after coming into contact with the polluted water. Lim stated that the pollution in Sungai Lereh has been detected for quite some time and has worsened in recent months, with four separate complaints filed in December alone. Several sources of pollution have been identified, including a waste disposal site in Sungai Udang and nearby industrial areas.

Lim mentioned that the Department of Environment (DOE) has been collecting water samples from the polluted river for analysis each time an incident was reported. However, detailed findings have
yet to be disclosed. He urged the authorities, including the DOE, to take decisive action against those responsible for the pollution to prevent further damage to the ecosystem.

Meanwhile, Sungai Lereh Fishermen Community Association secretary Zahnudin Aluwi noted that river pollution has been an issue since 2023, directly affecting fishermen’s livelihoods by reducing their catch. Species such as ikan belanak (mullet) and freshwater prawns have been particularly affected. The fishing community is hopeful that the pollution issue will be resolved, allowing them to resume their activities and increase their income.