Perak: A total of 700 open burning cases involving vegetation were recorded in Perak from January to March 2026, marking it as the highest category each month. State Housing and Local Government Committee chairman Sandrea Ng Shy Ching highlighted that the current hot and dry spell has further increased the risk of open burning incidents in the state.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, several districts, including Hulu Perak, Kinta, and Kuala Kangsar, are currently at Level 1 (alert) due to daily maximum temperatures reaching between 35 and 37 degrees Celsius, as noted by the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia). The state Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) reported 157 cases of garbage fires during the same period, with 53 bush fire cases and 47 plantation or farm fires.

Ng emphasized the need for the public to refrain from open burning under any circumstances, as it is both unlawful and poses a significant fire hazard, especially during the prevailing weather conditions. Additionally, she announced that stricter penalties for littering offences in public spaces, including fines of up to RM2,000 and Community Service Orders (CSO) ranging from four to 12 hours, are being finalized.

In a related development, Perak JBPM director Datuk Sayani Saidon confirmed that the department is maintaining an 80 percent readiness level, with personnel on standby at all times to address fire risks. Between 950 and 1,000 firefighters are on standby, even during festive seasons, with a scheduled leave system to ensure uninterrupted operations.

Sayani further stated that the department is enhancing preparedness by acquiring new fire engines, performing regular inspections of fire hydrants, and conducting patrols in identified fire hotspot areas.