Sarawak: The Sarawak branch of the Department of Environment (DOE) has advised the public not to conduct open burning without the permission of the authorities, especially during the ongoing hot and dry weather in the country.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the DOE stated that such conditions can increase the risk of haze and uncontrolled fires. "The ban on open burning can also prevent the deterioration of air quality due to severe air pollution, especially during this dry season," the statement emphasized. Open burning activities include the burning of agricultural waste, shrubs or bushes, any type of waste such as domestic or construction waste, and burning at disposal sites or peatland areas, all of which require written approval from the authorities.
The state DOE highlighted that pollution from open burning poses significant health risks, affecting public health by causing conditions such as asthma, cough, and bronchitis due to fine particles (PM2.5) in the smoke. In addition, it can exacerbate respiratory and heart problems, particularly for infants, the elderly, and those with chronic diseases, leading to irritation of the eyes, throat, and nose, thereby reducing the quality of life for residents.
Moreover, the environmental impact is severe, with consequences including air pollution and haze, an increase in the Air Pollution Index (API), degradation of soil and water quality due to burning waste, destruction of flora and fauna, damage to forest and peatland ecosystems, and an increase in greenhouse gas emissions contributing to global warming.
Open burning is an offence under Section 29A of the Environmental Quality Act 1974 (Amendment 2024), which stipulates a fine ranging from RM25,000 to RM1 million, or imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years, or both, upon conviction. Additionally, an extra fine not exceeding RM5,000 for each day the offence continues after being given a notice to stop the activity and a maximum compound not exceeding 50 per cent of the maximum fine rate can be imposed if found guilty, as per the DOE.
The public is urged to collaborate in addressing pollution issues and report any environmentally harmful activities to the toll-free line at 1-800-88-2727, which operates 24 hours a day, or via email at [email protected] or through the DOE e-complaint portal at https://eaduan.doe.gov.m.