TAMPARULI: Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food Industry, Datuk Jamawi Jaafar, has issued a strong warning to the management of a farm belonging to a company in Kampung Kauluan concerning pollution issues allegedly caused by the biogas system in the area.
During his visit to the farm today, he stated that problems related to the biogas system, which is supposed to manage energy waste, continue to pose various issues for the villagers.
According to the briefing he received, the company has implemented several preventive measures and improvements; however, he admitted that he is still not satisfied with the actions taken so far.
“I am still not satisfied with any of the measures that have been provided. I have determined that every three months, I will personally visit this area to monitor progress and ensure that all discussed matters are implemented,” he said.
Jamawi also granted the company a six-month period to fully resolve the issue.
“If within six months this matter persists and remains unresolved, I will not hesitate to propose to the Government that more drastic actions be taken,” he emphasized.
He stressed that the interests of the village community cannot be compromised merely to protect the operations of a company.
“We do not want to safeguard just a few companies while causing harm to a larger number of villagers. This area should serve as an example; although it is crucial for the state’s biosecurity in poultry and egg production, it must be free from pollution,” he stated.
In addition, Jamawi also proposed two suggestions to the company in case the issue is not addressed effectively.
“Firstly, they could consider relocating their operations to another area. Secondly, this farm operation has been ongoing for nearly 15 years, yet no corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs have been implemented for the village residents,” he stated.
