The Penang government said pollution affecting Kampung Selamat and Sungai Kereh in Tasek Gelugor is not solely caused by pig farming activities, but is also linked to agricultural operations, waste discharge, drainage systems and other environmental factors.
Penang Local Government and Town and Country Planning Committee chairman H’ng Mooi Lye said enforcement action is being carried out in an integrated manner involving the Department of Environment (DOE), local authorities, the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) and other technical agencies to identify the actual causes and implement corrective measures.
Among the measures being planned is the transfer of pig waste to the Ampang Jajar Transfer Station (SPAJ) to be processed as feedstock for an anaerobic digestion system.
“Through this process, organic waste is broken down in an oxygen-free environment to produce methane gas, which can be utilised as a renewable energy source,” he said.
He said the initiative would help reduce river pollution and environmental risks, while supporting sustainability efforts through more systematic waste management and green energy generation.
According to records from the Penang DOE, seven complaints related to water pollution and foul odour were received between 2024 and this year.
H’ng said field investigations and site inspections also found drains overgrown with aquatic weeds, which may have slowed water flow and contributed to foul odour issues.
