KUCHING, April 29: The Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) has launched a joint operation to investigate open burning in residential areas under its jurisdiction.
According to MPP chairman Lo Khere Chiang, since January until April 27, MPP has received a total of 24 complaints regarding open burning, and 15 of the complaints involved residential areas.
“Most of the complaints are burning garden waste (tree, leaf, grass), plastic, paper and wood or old cabinets.
“MPP is conducting an ongoing joint operation and investigation with the Natural Resources Environment Board (NREB) and Department Of Environment (DOE) to tackle this matter to advise and warn offenders,” he said during a live press conference via Zoom session held after the Council Meeting, together with its deputy Dato Ahmad Dato’ Sri Ibrahim and others invited participants, today.
Lo noted that smoke from open burning can cause adverse effects to health, because smoke from burning garbage or trash which contains toxic pollutants, can cause cancer.
“Additionally, fine particulate matter from burning is one of the most harmful air pollutants to public health. It is especially harmful to young people whose lungs are still developing as well as those with cardiovascular or respiratory ailments,” he said.
At the same time, he reminded the public to play their role to solve this problem and to be aware that open burning in residential areas can cause nuisance to neighborhoods and air pollution to the environment.
He said the community must have a sense of responsibility and awareness not to do open burning.
“They should dispose of their garden waste or renovation waste properly by contacting Trienekens (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd who can provide rental of suitable bins for disposal of such items,” added Lo. — DayakDaily
