Malaysian recycling plant probed for odour pollution in Sungai Semenyih

A recycling plant in Mahkota Beranang, Semenyih, is under investigation for causing odour pollution in Sungai Semenyih. Authorities detected the issue on May 3 after reports of a foul smell and coloured discharge. The factory is suspected of violating environmental regulations by releasing waste into the drainage system. The pollution was first identified when the threshold odour number (TON) reached two on May 3. Inspections revealed the factory had failed to comply with Selangor’s Zero Discharge Policy (ZDP). Authorities traced the source to the plant’s discharge, which flowed into nearby waterways.

The Land Use and Water Management Authority (LUAS) took immediate action. They ordered the factory to stop all discharges and begin cleaning the affected area. To reduce the impact, LUAS pumped water from Pond B and Pond C to maintain supply at the Sungai Semenyih Water Treatment Plant (WTP). They also applied 100kg of activated carbon and carried out intensive odour monitoring. By 8pm on the same day, no abnormal odour was detected in Sungai Semenyih or Sungai Kabul. However, LUAS launched an investigation under Section 79(4) and Section 59 of the LUAS Enactment 1999. The agency will continue monitoring both rivers to prevent further pollution.

The factory now faces potential penalties for breaching environmental laws. LUAS has confirmed that mitigation efforts stabilised the situation, with no lingering odour detected. Ongoing monitoring will ensure the rivers remain unaffected by further discharges.