Asbestos: Malaysia should make sure ban stays in place
The Consumers Association of Penang called for a complete ban on all forms of asbestos way back in 2001. This was due to the rising number of cases of asbestos-related diseases due to the intensive use of asbestos in the past and the fact that some countries, including Malaysia, continue to use chrysotile.
In a recent consultation with the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) on 28 March 2011, a consensus was reached on the banning of asbestos, including chrysotile. Representatives of APCO Worlwide who were also at the meeting, objected to the inclusion of chrysotile in the ban on the basis that Malaysia would face economic losses by doing so. It was emphasized by those present and by DOSH that the use of chrysotile, is in any case being phased out by the industry.
Basic occupational health and safety procedures ignored by state government
The Consumer’s Association of Penang (CAP) lauds the Penang state government for its ‘Cleaner, Greener Penang' initiative. The initiative although long overdue in view of Penang’s deteriorating environment, is a positive step forward to restore Penang’s lost charm.However, as depicted in The Star (24 May), the state government seems to have sacrificed its basic human values in its endeavour to create a better environment for its citizens.
SOCSO cases: Effective compensation needed
The Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP) applauds the Human Resource Minister, YB Datuk Dr S. Subramaniam for highlighting the fact that workers are losing out on SOCSO claims because doctors do not link diseases and health problems to the job.
