By Tedong Rantayy
MIRI, March 24: Minister for Transport Sarawak Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, who is also Minister-In-Charge of Miri Disaster Management Committee (MDMC) reminds private landowners here to ensure there is no open burning on their land during the current dry spell.
Lee also emphasised the crucial collaboration between landowners with relevant authorities in order to effectively manage potential fire risks and protect the environment.
“It is your (landowners’) responsibility to safeguard your respective land and prevent any peat fires,” he told local media.
Citing the recent peat fire in Kuala Baram and behind Eastwood, he added, all agencies, including private landowners, came together to provide assistance and support.
Lee was responding to a question posed to him on the current situation on peat fires in Miri.
On another note, Lee said, authorities are conducting frequent surveillance to monitor for any signs of open burning during the dry spell.
Lee added the authorities have been reinforcing their surveillance patrol routine frequency in high-risk areas, such as Kuala Baram, Senadin, Permyjaya and Eastwood to effectively monitor and prevent any potential fire outbreaks.
“”We will be utilising drone technology, for example thermal drone M30T, to monitor and enforce compliance with environmental regulations. This advanced approach will allow us to effectively survey large areas and identify any instances of unauthorised burning. By utilising drones, we can quickly respond to any violations and take appropriate action to prevent further damage to the environment,” he disclosed.
Lee urged all residents to refrain from engaging in open burning activities during the current dry spell.
“The risk of wildfires is significantly heightened during such conditions, and it is crucial that we all do our part to prevent any potential disasters,” he said.
According to Malaysian Meteorological Department (METMalaysia), Miri is beginning to experience the southwest monsoon which brings low rainfall and this situation is expected to last until September. — DayakDaily
