28/12/2010 (Bernama) - The Muanad River, which is the source of water supply in the Beluran district, is now polluted, believed by waste from palm oil mills operating along the river.

Residents claim the water has a foul smell although it is treated at the water treatment plant and is affecting fishermen's catch, especially those in Kampung Muanad and Kampung Rampik.

Hence, Beluran Member of Parliment Datuk Ronald Kiandee, who visited the Beluran water treatment plant here today, called on the Department of Environment (DOE) and other relevant law enforcement agencies to take stern action against the five palm oil mills.

He said continous and thight inspection should be conducted on the mills.

"It is important to ensure that water supply in this area remains clean water to the residents here," he said.

Meanwhile, Sandakan DOE's deputy head Hamdan Yakob, when met during the visit, urged the affected residents, especially in Kampung Muanad and Kampung Rampik, to lodge formal reports and complaints to his office to enable immediate action to be taken.

He said only after the reports were lodged, could further action be taken, including examining the water samples taken from the river and bringing those responsible for the pollution to book.