SEREMBAN 16 April 2026 (The Capital Post) – Authorities have confirmed that 26 drums discovered at an abandoned oil palm plantation in Jempol contained chemical waste, raising environmental concerns and prompting an ongoing investigation.
Negeri Sembilan executive councillor S. Veerapan said preliminary checks revealed that the drums were filled with substances such as paint sludge and coolant, based on early findings by enforcement agencies.
He added that the Department of Environment (DOE) has collected samples from the drums, which will be sent to a laboratory in Petaling Jaya for detailed analysis to determine the exact composition of the materials.
The discovery was first reported to authorities by the Ayer Hitam police at around 5pm on April 14, although investigations at the remote site only began the following day.
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A Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) team from the Fire and Rescue Department was later deployed to assist in the operation, including opening the drums to facilitate sample collection and ensure safety during the inspection process.
Authorities are now working to identify the owner of the land and track down those responsible for illegally dumping the waste, as part of efforts to prevent potential environmental damage.
The case has highlighted concerns over improper disposal of industrial waste in rural areas, with officials stressing the importance of strict enforcement to protect public health and the environment. -The Capital Post