By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Aug 12: The Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) has warned the public against open burning as haze conditions worsen across Sarawak, with offenders facing a fine of up to RM100,000, imprisonment of up to five years, or both upon conviction.
NREB reminded the public not to carry out open burning activities that could contribute to air pollution, particularly during the hot season.
Those found guilty may be prosecuted under Section 30(1)(a) and Section 30(2) of the Natural Resources and Environment Ordinance (Cap. 84, Laws of Sarawak, Ed. 1958).
The warning comes as air quality in several parts of Sarawak deteriorates, with Tebedu and Serian recording very unhealthy API readings of 212 and 202 respectively as of 4pm today.
In a statement today, the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) said 11 other areas were in the unhealthy category, while five areas recorded moderate air quality.
The public has also been urged to cooperate by extinguishing small fires and reporting cases of open burning to the nearest NREB office. Reports can be made through the NREB hotlines at 082-447488 or 082-319500.
NREB said the confidentiality of reports was guaranteed under Section 38 on the protection of informers under the same Ordinance.
SDMC and relevant agencies will continue monitoring air quality, weather conditions, hotspots and fire incidents throughout Sarawak.
“Monitoring and coordination of measures will be carried out continuously to ensure appropriate action can be taken if conditions indicate an increased risk to public safety, health and well-being,” the committee said.
The public are also urged not to speculate or spread unverified information about the haze situation and to obtain the latest updates through official government channels. — DayakDaily
