Need effective action against pollution such as in Taman Wangsa Permai, Kepong.

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw stresses that the Government must take action as soon as possible to solve the pollution including noise at Jalan Wangsa 1/3, Taman Wangsa Permai, Kepong.

Such type of pollution in which illegal workshops operate near residential houses occurs all over the country. That local authorities like Selayang Municipal Council (MPS) can shut an eye over the matter is mind boggling.

Tago Industrial Area is next door to Taman Wangsa Permai, Kepong. Its slope adjoining the housing area is a green lung which the residents used to frequent.

Lo and behold, over three years ago a small group of people destroyed the green lung, replacing it with concrete and dividing it into lots. It has let these to workshops such as for car and lorry repairs, recycling and spraying of paints. Pollution together with inflammable materials such as paper and wood is horrendous.

Taman Wangsa Permai residents have complained to MPS and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. In September, 2006, Dr Tan sent another reminder to the minister YB Datuk Seri Azmi Khalid about the issue. One or two residents have moved because of the continued nuisance.

On 21.10.2007, Dr Tan revisited the site, in particular the victims nearest to the workshops at 67 Jalan Wangsa 1/3 in the housing estate.

The local authority behaves as though it sees and hears nothing. It cannot be bothered.

In the 2008 budget, the Prime Minister and Finance Minister YAB Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi reiterates that the Government is committed to ensure a balance between physical development and preservation of the environment. Tomorrow, I am going to present another reminder to YB Datuk Seri Azmi Khalid.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw