Kedah blast: MP refuses to speculate on contaminants, waits for probe

Since a forensic probe will be carried out into the explosion at a factory in Bukit Selambau, Kedah, Sungai Petani MP Taufiq Johari refused to speculate if contaminants were released in the incident.

However, he said if contamination is detected, the Department of Environment (DOE) can investigate and conduct cleaning works according to the established procedures.

Taufiq also told Malaysiakini that the blaze was not related to fireworks.

“I have been informed that the actual cause of the incident is still unidentified but is suspected to have originated from flammable materials, not from fireworks as initially speculated.

“It is hoped that all parties refrain from spreading any speculation regarding this matter,” he told Malaysiakini.

Taufiq said the authorities are also looking into the need to take further measures to prevent contamination.

As of 4.30pm this evening, the MP said firefighters were still at the scene.

Bernama reported that three warehouses for the storage of copper metal and wires were destroyed in the blaze, which started close to 8pm last night.

In a subsequent report tonight, Bernama quoted Kedah DOE director Sharifah Zakiah Syed Sahab saying two of the three affected premises never received operational approval from the department, while the third had obtained environmental impact assessment approval in 2020 but did not apply for a license to operate.

She said an investigation has been launched and the department is monitoring the air quality of the surrounding area. The site of the fire is being monitored by drones, but DOE investigators could not enter to gather samples because the fire has yet to be fully extinguished.

Meanwhile, Taufiq told Malaysiakini that the fire was brought under control at 10.02pm last night.

“Fortunately there have been no reported casualties from the incident. The firefighting process is ongoing, and only after its completion can forensic investigations proceed.

“I urge all parties to take proactive measures, especially concerning electronic waste (e-waste), to prevent such unwanted incidents from recurring in the future.

“Heightened vigilance and strict adherence to safety protocols are crucial to ensure the safety of the community and its assets,” he added.

Taufiq said he also instructed the Sungai Petani Parliamentary Constituency Service Centre to collaborate with relevant departments in assisting those affected by the incident.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), e-waste is considered hazardous waste as it contains toxic materials or can produce toxic chemicals when treated inappropriately. Many of these toxic materials are known or suspected to cause harm to human health.

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