Requirements on Home Renovation Contractors to Make Sure Structures Put up Do Not Encourage Mosquito Breeding
Ministry of Sustainability and the EnvironmentSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns Ms Joan Pereira’s inquiry regarding building requirements for renovation contractors to prevent mosquito breeding and whether permits should be conditional on these measures. Minister Masagos Zulkifli B M M explained that developers and owners must adhere to the Code of Practice on Environmental Health (COPEH) to eliminate potential water stagnation. Specific regulations include prohibiting roof gutters in new developments and air-conditioning trays, while requiring floor traps to be fitted with anti-mosquito devices. The National Environment Agency and Building and Construction Authority grant approvals only when Qualified Persons certify that building plans comply with COPEH standards. These measures aim to suppress the Aedes mosquito population and keep dengue cases in check through community-wide vigilance and regulatory compliance.
Transcript
54 Ms Joan Pereira asked the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources (a) what building requirements do home renovation contractors have to satisfy to ensure that their structures prevent mosquito breeding; and (b) whether the Ministry will consider only granting permits for renovations when the relevant Government agencies are satisfied that such preventive measures are in place.
Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: Developers of new buildings and owners who undertake major renovations of their premises are required to avoid features that may result in water stagnation and become potential mosquito breeding grounds. For example, installation of roof gutters is prohibited for new developments. Trays and receptacles are not allowed to be placed beneath or on top of any air conditioning unit. Floor traps also need to be installed with anti-mosquito devices to prevent mosquito breeding in the water seal.
These requirements are specified in the Code of Practice on Environmental Health (COPEH). The National Environment Agency and the Building and Construction Authority will only grant technical clearances and approval for the proposed building plans respectively, when Qualified Persons appointed by the building owners or developers have ensured and declared that the building plans are in compliance with the COPEH.
Everyone, including residents, contractors and premises owners, has a part to play to prevent mosquito breeding. We need to remain vigilant, and continue to work as a community to suppress the Aedes mosquito population and keep dengue cases in check.