Schools Close & Birds Reported Sick Following Heavy Odour Pollution In Johor Bahru

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According to the New Straits Times, Johor Education and Information committee chairman Aznan Tamin said SK Maju Jaya and the Islam Hidayah primary and secondary schools have switched to home-based learning after 21 primary school students fell sick on Monday, 9 September.

The students experienced symptoms of nausea, breathing difficulties, and dry throats, believed to be caused by a heavy chemical odour that started to pollute the air in various parts of Skudai from late Sunday night, 8 September.

Aznan said physical classes will only resume once the air quality improves and is safe for students and teachers alike.

Malay Mail reported that similar complaints were received in several areas along Sungai Pandan and Sungai Pelentong, which impacted various residential neighbourhoods such as Taman Mount Austin, Taman Daya, and Taman Istimewa.

In a statement on Facebook on Monday, 9 September, Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said the Environment Department and the Fire and Rescue Department are in the midst of identifying the chemicals found in the rivers.

"The results of the investigation found that the chemicals found in the rivers have the potential to harm public health, with toxic components having polluted the air and caused a very strong and unpleasant smell," he said.

According to China Press, some residents said they have also developed uncomfortable symptoms such as nausea, sore throats, and headaches, as well as have noticed birds falling to the ground, believed to be 'poisoned' by the chemical odour.

Authorities have advised residents to take precautionary measures by wearing face masks and avoiding being in the affected areas. They are also advised to seek treatment immediately if they experience symptoms.