JOHOR BARU: A 35-year-old farmer and vegetable trader was slapped with a fine of RM30,000 by the Sessions Court here for the illegal disposal of commercial waste.

       Chon Soon Khent was charged with committing the offence in Kampung Ban Foo, Ulu Tiram near here at around 6pm on Aug 5.

       Johor Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Corporation Sdn Bhd (SWCorp) director Cairul Hisham Jalaluddin said in a statement on Thursday (Sept 30) that Justice Ahmad Fuad Othman had meted out the fine, in default six months’ jail, on Sept 27.

       Chon is said to have committed the offence under Section 7(1) of the Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Act 2007, punishable under Section 71(8) of the same Act.

       Cairul reminded the public to refrain from disposing of waste illegally, especially at undesignated dumpsites.

       “All trash and solid waste must be sent to the designated disposal facility or landfill sites for proper waste management.

       “SWCorp takes this matter seriously and will not hesitate to take action against those who commit such irresponsible acts,” he said, urging the public to take care of the environment.

       He added that 20 cases involving the illegal disposal of solid waste had been brought to court so far, with fines amounting to RM335,000.

       The public may channel enquiries or complaints on illegal dumping to the SWCorp hotline at 1-800-88-7472 or its office at 07-222 6476.