By Lian Cheng
KUCHING, Aug 6: Infrastructure and Port Development Minister Tan Sri Dr James Jemut Masing says it is despicable for the United States of America to dump 21 containers of its plastic waste in Kuching.
Following a report that containers of plastic and toxic waste were found in Kuching Port, Masing said all ports in Sarawak will carry out stringent monitoring of containers to prevent garbage from being imported into Sarawak.
“It is despicable of the United States of America in trying to dump containers of plastic and toxic waste in other countries.
“It is not only in violation of international rules but it is the most despicable act by the USA, which claims to be the guardian of international guard dogs of environment (sic),” Masing who is also the Deputy Chief Minister asserted.
These 42 containers of plastic waste have since been returned to the USA.
Environment and Water Minister Datuk Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man had told Parliament yesterday that during the Movement Control Order period in March, the federal government detected and shipped back 13 toxic waste-filled containers and 42 containers filled with plastic waste.
The Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS) deputy president disclosed that out of the 42 containers of plastic waste which weighed 796,553kg in total, 21 of them were found in Kuching Port.
Meanwhile, Tuan Ibrahim also disclosed that another 110 containers filled with plastic waste were found in transit at Tanjung Pelepas Port, Johor.
They will be shipped back to Romania, said Tuan Ibrahim. — DayakDaily
