JOHOR BARU: There are 14 rivers in Johor with water quality categorised as polluted, says Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
The Johor Mentri Besar said a task force would be set up to find ways to solve the river pollution issue in the state.
"I have visited several rivers to see for myself the condition.
"I am disappointed to see the state of the rivers that are filled with piles of rubbish, waste materials and strong stench from chemical pollution.
"As such, I have told the Environment Department, the Drainage and Irrigation Department, local authorities and the relevant agencies to come out with a task force to solve the river pollution issue in Johor immediately," he said in a statement here Saturday (Oct 28).
Among polluted rivers in the state include Sungai Kempas, Sungai Buluh, Sungai Tampoi and Sungai Pandan.
Onn Hafiz also urged the public to do their part in keeping the rivers free of pollution.
"I also want to urge Johoreans to come together in fulfilling their social responsibility would close cooperation with the state government to maintain cleanliness and health.
"I am confident that with the close cooperation of various state and Federal Government agencies, the rivers in Johor can be cleaned, thus realising the Johor Bersih agenda by 2030," he said.