DOE, Labuan Corporation And Marine Dept Investigate Oil Spill At Marina Jetty

LABUAN, Aug 18 (Bernama) -- An investigation has been launched into the oil spill incident at the Labuan Public Marine Jetty to identify the parties responsible.

The Department of Environment (DOE), in a statement to Bernama today, said the investigation would involve Labuan Corporation and the Marine Department. 

The incident was first reported to the DOE office in Labuan on Aug 14, and enforcement officers were immediately dispatched to the site for inspection at 2.30 pm the same day. 

The DOE enforcement officers discovered oil waste patches estimated between 500 to 1,000 litres accumulated along the jetty and sticking to boats. 

“Samples of the oil waste were collected and have been sent to the Chemistry Department for analysis...as of no compound issued to any parties,” it said.

It added that an immediate action notice was issued to the jetty operator, and clean-up operations were carried out by the Petroleum Industry of Malaysia Mutual Aid Group (PIMMAG). 

The DOE confirmed that it is working closely with the Marine Department, Labuan Corporation, and Labuan Port Authority in managing the case.

The department reminded the public that discharging oil into Malaysian waters without a licence is an offence under the Environmental Quality Act 1974, and stern legal action will be taken against those found responsible.

The department also reaffirmed its commitment to continuous monitoring and strict enforcement to safeguard Labuan’s marine environment. 

Members of the public are urged to report any environmental pollution through DOE’s hotline at 087-408 772, mobile at 010-270 8772, or via the online portal at https://eaduan.doe.gov.my.

-- BERNAMA