By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Mar 27: The Department of Environment (DoE) Sarawak has warned the public not to carry out open burning without obtaining permission from the relevant authorities.
According to a statement, the department urged the public to take the matter seriously amid the hot, dry weather, noting that open burning could increase the risk of haze and fires.
“Open burning can affect air quality and pose serious impacts on public health, particularly among those with respiratory illnesses such as asthma and bronchitis, and high-risk groups including infants and the elderly, due to exposure to fine particulate matter,” it said.
The department added that the prohibition covers the burning of agricultural waste, undergrowth, bushes, domestic rubbish, construction waste, as well as burning activities at disposal sites and peatland areas without written approval from the authorities.
Individuals found guilty of the offence may face action under Section 29A of the Environmental Quality Act 1974 (Amendment 2024), including fines ranging from RM25,000 to RM1 million, imprisonment for up to five years, or both.
In addition, offenders are subjected to an additional fine of up to RM5,000 for each day the offence continues after a notice has been issued, as well as a compound of up to 50 per cent of the maximum fine. — DayakDaily
