PUTRAJAYA: The Home Ministry has been tasked with coming up with regulations to license the import and sales of firecrackers and fireworks, following the Cabinet's decision to legalise their use, says Nga Kor Ming.
The Local Government Development Minister said the Finance Ministry would also be involved to determine duty to be imposed on these items.
He said while the Cabinet had agreed to legalise the lighting up of firecrackers and fireworks, this was subject to approval by the authorities such as import licences and duties to be paid.
"The lighting up of firecrackers is a normal practice among Malaysians. People will play with firecrackers even during Hari Raya, Deepavali and even during Christmas.
"This can bring millions of ringgit in revenue to the government if this is allowed.
"Further, by legalising it, we can shut down syndicates smuggling firecrackers and fireworks.
"We can also ensure the products meet our high safety standards and avoid accidents," he said at the ministry's Chinese New Year Open House on Friday (Feb 3).
Nga also said the control and licensing would be imposed at the source and would involve importers and wholesalers.
Consumers would not be required to get permission to use firecrackers and fireworks.
Nga who was earlier reported to announce the Cabinet decision had said that legalising firecrackers and fireworks would bring benefits to the country including increasing revenue and improving safety.
"In the past, there were incidents of injuries related to the setting off of firecrackers and fireworks.
"And this is due to the reason that some products do not meet the requirements and standards," he said.
Following legalisation, Nga had said all imported firecrackers and fireworks would require the approval and verification of the relevant authorities.
