GANGLAND funerals using firecrackers will soon be banned at crematoriums run by local councils as there is a danger of explosion with highly flammable materials close by.
According to a state government source, Selangor is drawing up regulations to ban the lighting of firecrackers at crematoriums because of the risks involved.
Amendments are being made to the Crematorium (PJ City Council) By-Laws 2007 under the Local Government Act 1976.
Youths linked to gangs would usually escort the funeral procession on motorcycles and set off firecrackers as the casket is brought into the crematorium during the final send-off.
This often happens at the Kampung Tunku Crematorium in Petaling Jaya.
Normally, workers at local council-operated crematoriums who have tried to stop the lighting of firecrackers are threatened and told to mind their own business.
An MBPJ worker said he was always fearful the sparks would hit the diesel tank or gas cylinders.
“We have flammable materials and people around could easily get hurt,” he said.
The lighting of firecrackers at funerals is also a traditional custom among the Chinese, who believe that loud noises drive away bad spirits.
It is learnt that this would be among the issues brought up during a roundtable discussion with NGOs on the proposed increase in Selangor cremation rates.
State Plantation Workers, Poverty and Caring Government committee chairman, V. Ganabatirau will chair the discussion.
StarMetro had reported that cremation costs at council-operated crematoriums in Selangor are set to double
The cost of hiring the council’s hearse is also expected to increase based on mileage.
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