Odour, flies, and traffic dangers spark uproar in villages near decades-old landfill in Johor
More than 50 residents from Kampung Desa Makmur and surrounding villages in Kota Tinggi, Johor, staged a peaceful protest demanding the closure of a landfill site they say has polluted their community with unbearable odour and swarms of flies.
The 4.2-hectare landfill in Batu Empat, located near Kampung Desa Makmur, has been operational for over 20 years. But residents say conditions have worsened dramatically, impacting over 10 villages and nearly 5,000 people. Community representative Juffri Juraimee, 73, told reporters during the May 1 protest that the situation is now “unbearable.” He also alleged that the waste being dumped originates from outside the district and that the site has never been properly gazetted.
Odour, Flies, and Health Concerns
Residents say the odour is so strong that many have had to permanently shut their windows and doors. Some families have even moved away due to the daily discomfort. “We can’t live like this anymore,” said Hassan Sani, 44, a 15-year resident of Kampung Desa Makmur and retired soldier. The accompanying increase in flies has raised hygiene and health concerns, particularly for families with young children.
Traffic Hazards from Waste Trucks
The constant movement of large garbage trucks has become another pressing issue. Teacher Suhaila Banian, 46, who has lived in the village for 19 years, warned that lorries park on both sides of narrow roads, especially during school hours. “They block visibility at the entrance of our village. It’s dangerous for everyone—especially children being dropped off or picked up for school,” she said.
Protest and Memorandum to Johor MB
In response to prolonged inaction, over 50 locals gathered peacefully at the landfill site to demand its closure or relocation. The protestors, led by village elders and parents, also submitted a memorandum to Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi calling for immediate intervention. They argue that the landfill has not only disrupted daily life but also poses a broader environmental risk.
Questions Raised About Landfill Legality
Juffri also questioned the legality of the landfill’s continued operations, stating that the state government has never officially approved or gazetted the site. He urged authorities to conduct a thorough review of its licensing status and assess whether health and environmental regulations are being met.
This protest underscores a growing demand for better waste management solutions across Johor. With rapid urban expansion and cross-district dumping allegations emerging, residents are pressing the government for long-term solutions that balance public health, environmental protection, and industrial needs.
The unrest in Batu Empat reflects deeper frustrations over waste management and environmental oversight in Johor. As affected communities demand action, the incident spotlights the urgent need for transparent regulations, responsive governance, and people-first planning—especially in regions straddling industrial and residential zones.
Sources: Malay Mail (2025), Bernama (2025)
Keywords: Batu Empat Landfill, Kota Tinggi Protest, Odour Pollution, Johor Waste Site, Kampung Desa Makmur
