State health and environment committee chairman Ling Tian Soon said a contractor will submit a proposal for the cleanup to the Johor Bahru disaster management committee before commencing work, which will take a week.

“‘The public is advised not to be alarmed during the cleanup period,” he said in a statement today, Bernama reported.

He advised them to stay away from the Sungai Tebrau and Sungai Plentong areas.

“‘People are also asked to seek treatment immediately if they experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, vomiting and dizziness after inhaling the odour suspected to be caused by the disposal of chemical waste,” he said.

The residents, especially those in risk groups such as pregnant women, the chronically ill, children and the elderly, should avoid activities outside their homes.

“Those who may be exposed to chemical residues are advised to shower and to wash their clothes separately to avoid exposure through the skin,” he said.

Ling condemned the actions of parties who took shortcuts in disposing of scheduled waste and said the case was being investigated under Section 34B of the Environmental Quality Act 1974.

Those found guilty under the provision could face mandatory imprisonment and a maximum fine of RM10 million.

Over the past week, several areas in Johor Bahru had been affected by odour pollution, forcing the closure of schools. Residents had complained of symptoms such as nausea, breathing difficulties and dry throats.

Yesterday, Bernama reported that Johor police arrested two men, aged 23 and 28, on Monday night in connection with the chemical odour pollution incidents.