Penang:The Department of Environment (DOE) in Penang has taken measures against eight industrial premises by issuing directive notices and recommended compound fines for another six premises during the recent "Ops Gempur" operation in the Juru River Basin area.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Penang DOE conducted inspections on 14 industrial factories from September 14 to 18, focusing on those with the potential for high pollution. The operation resulted in eight premises receiving Directive Notices under Sections 31 and 37 of the Environmental Quality Act 1974. Additionally, six premises were recommended for compound fines under the Environmental Quality (Scheduled Wastes) Regulations 2005 of the same act.

The premises facing compound fines are under investigation for failing to notify the Director-General of Environmental Quality about the category and new quantity of scheduled wastes generated within 30 days of generation. The DOE's actions also addressed failures in storing scheduled wastes in appropriate containers to prevent environmental spills or leaks.

Penang DOE further stated that the premises penalised with compound fines were investigated for not properly labeling the scheduled wastes they produced. The operation targeted Scheduled Wastes Prescribed Premises (PYDT BT) and Non-Prescribed Premises (PYBDT) and involved 15 enforcement personnel from the department.

The operation was carried out in collaboration with several agencies, including the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM), the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP), the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM), and the Penang Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH).