The Malaysian Ministry of Environment (KLH) has announced the closure of two iron and steel smelting companies in the Jatiuwung area of Tangerang, Banten Province, after they were found to have caused severe environmental pollution and committed regulatory violations, including the lack of exhaust gas emission control systems.
Environment Minister Hanif Faisal Nurofik, during the launch of the "Bring Back Our Blue Sky" campaign in Tangerang, stated that the closure decision came after the discovery that the two companies used hazardous and toxic materials in their smelting processes, leading to environmental contamination. He confirmed that investigations are still ongoing and that the ministry will follow up on the enforcement of any penalties to ensure compliance with the law, especially by companies operating without the required permits.
Nurofik stressed that the ministry adopts a strict stance against any industrial facility that pollutes the environment, aiming to foster a culture of compliance and protect the community. The Tangerang Environmental Agency has also deployed field teams to other areas to follow up on complaints and conduct monitoring activities.
The minister added that the ministry will continue to coordinate with the “Blue Sky” task force to take firm action against any detected violations, noting: “We will not hesitate to intervene when necessary, and the Ministry of Environment is ready to provide full support.” Meanwhile, Tangerang Mayor Sachrudin announced that the period from September to December 2025 will see extensive inspection campaigns targeting industries that use fossil fuels, to ensure compliance with emission standards and encourage the transition to clean energy.