Perak environmental agency proposes study to pinpoint water quality issues in Hulu Perak

The Perak Department of Environment (DOE) has recommended a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) study for the Hulu Perak region to precisely identify and map all potential sources impacting water quality and elevated mineral levels in the Sungai Rui. This study is crucial for providing the state government with the necessary technical data to formulate effective decisions and implement organized strategies for pollution control.

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We have proposed a TMDL study for Hulu Perak. Through this study, we can map all sources along the river, not just mining activities, and identify the responsible agencies.

According to S. Pravin, a Senior Environmental Control Officer at the Perak DOE, the proposed study will not be limited to mining activities but will encompass all possible sources along the river. It will also identify the responsible parties or agencies. The DOE has already briefed the Perak Water Resources Management Board (LPSA) on this proposal, and LPSA is expected to prepare a working paper to secure funding for the study.

This initiative is partly driven by past incidents in 2018 and 2019 that indicated similar issues, though they were not comprehensively documented at the time. Pravin emphasized the need for thorough data to ensure accurate decision-making for future water quality management. He noted that the TMDL approach is vital to avoid attributing water quality changes solely to one activity without understanding the cumulative contribution from various sources.

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Perhaps there were similar incidents before but not well-documented. Now, with the latest report, we have clearer findings.

Experts also weighed in, with Dr. Abdul Rani Abdullah, CEO of Pakar Scieno TW Sdn. Bhd., advocating for a thorough audit of mining companies in Hulu Perak. This audit should identify weaknesses in water management systems and waste discharge. He stressed the importance of a comprehensive audit with clear terms of reference to ensure that expected management systems are indeed in place. Furthermore, he recommended real-time telemetry monitoring for continuous oversight.

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We are not trying to deny that there are sources that can contribute to the changes. What we need is technical data so the state government can make the right decisions to control this issue in the future.

Nizarulikram Abdul Rahim, Director of the Perak Mineral and Geoscience Department (JMG), indicated that the telemetry system is anticipated to be completed by the end of the year. The implementation of such systems, alongside audits and management plans, is seen as essential for strengthening controls over activities that could potentially harm the river.

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The audit must involve a gap analysis to ensure that the proper management system that should be in place has been implemented. So the first thing is a comprehensive audit with clear terms of reference to identify what should have happened but did not.