By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Aug 1: The Sarawak Department of Environment (DOE) has issued a stern reminder to the public not to carry out any form of open burning without proper authorisation, particularly during the current hot and dry weather affecting Malaysia.
In a media statement issued today, the department emphasised that such activities could significantly increase the risk of haze and uncontrolled fires, leading to severe air pollution and public health hazards.
The department clarified that open burning includes the burning of agricultural waste, bushes or shrubs, domestic waste, construction debris, and burning at landfill sites or peatlands—whether controlled or not—if done without written approval from the authorities.
“Health impacts from open burning smoke include asthma, coughing, bronchitis due to fine particles (PM2.5), as well as respiratory and heart problems, particularly affecting infants, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses.
“It can also cause eye, throat, and nose irritation, significantly reducing residents’ quality of life,” said the department.
The environmental consequences are equally severe, as open burning could lead to air pollution and haze (indicated by a rise in the Air Pollutant Index or API), soil and water quality degradation due to combustion residue, destruction of flora, fauna, and peatland ecosystems, and an increase in greenhouse gas emissions contributing to global warming.
Those found guilty may face legal action under Section 29A of the Environmental Quality Act 1974 (Amendment 2024). Upon conviction, offenders can be fined between RM25,000 and RM1 million, imprisoned for up to five years, or both.
Additional daily fines of up to RM5,000 may also be imposed for each day the offence continues after a stop notice is issued. Offenders may also be compounded up to 50 per cent of the maximum fine.
The DOE urges the public to work together to address environmental pollution and report any activities that harm the environment.
Reports can be made via the 24-hour toll-free hotline at 1-800-88-2727, email to aduan_k@doe.gov.my, or through the DOE’s e-complaint portal. — DayakDaily
