The Johor Department of Environment (DoE) has identified a high concentration of ammonia gas in Sungai Pandan, which is believed to be the source of a chemical odor reported in various parts of Johor Baru. The issue was first detected following complaints about the unpleasant smell received around midnight.
Senior Deputy Director Mohd Rashdan Topa confirmed that tests using a multi-gas detector revealed elevated ammonia levels in Kampung Melayu Pandan. The highest concentration was recorded at 2 p.m. yesterday, surpassing the Acute Exposure Guideline Levels (AEGL-1), which indicate safe air quality standards.
AEGLs are established to define risk levels associated with chemical exposure. The department began monitoring the situation immediately after the complaints. By 1:30 p.m. the same day, water quality tests showed low dissolved oxygen levels in Sungai Pandan, suggesting potential contamination.
Today’s follow-up monitoring indicated that ammonia gas levels have returned to normal. Water and soil samples from Sungai Pandan have been sent to the state’s chemistry department for further analysis to determine the contamination's source.
In addition to conventional monitoring, Johor DoE is using drones to inspect a two-kilometer stretch of Sungai Pandan for additional pollution signs. Initial drone surveys revealed sections of the river were blackened and had oil slicks on the surface, which contributed to the strong odor. Oil slicks were also detected near the Tebrau Industrial Area, suggesting chemical runoff.
The Johor DoE plans to inspect industrial facilities along Sungai Pandan, particularly those involved in ammonia use, such as fertilizer and ice factories, as well as sewage plants. There is also the possibility that waste chemicals may have been illegally dumped by an external source.
Currently, two individuals from the affected areas, including Taman Mount Austin, Taman Daya, and Taman Istimewa, have sought outpatient treatment at a local health clinic for dizziness and nausea caused by the odor.
The Fire and Rescue Department, including a Hazmat team, conducted initial air quality checks immediately after the reports were received just after midnight.
