SIBU: The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has urged the public to stop the practice of open burning following a sharp increase in open fire cases in the state in the past two weeks.
Sarawak JBPM deputy director Tiong Ling Hii said the latest statistics showed a worrying upward trend, especially from March 22 to its peak on March 25.
“During the period from March 15 to 26, we saw a fluctuating pattern at the initial stage, but there was a significant spike starting March 22. The peak was on March 25, with 35 cases recorded in a single day, a very high level.
“Most of the cases occurred due to burning activities for agricultural purposes in addition to deliberate burning,” he said in a yesterday, Bernama reported.
According to him, although the number of cases decreased slightly to 24 on March 26, the situation remains at a cautious level and requires immediate preventive measures by all parties.
In terms of distribution, Miri was identified as the most critical area with 59 open fire cases recorded, almost double that of Sibu, which recorded 29 cases.
In addition, Bintulu (24 cases) and Mukah (23) showed a moderate risk level, requiring close monitoring. Kuching recorded 11 cases, followed by Betong (eight) and Sri Aman (five).
Several other areas, such as Serian, Samarahan, Sarikei and Kapit, recorded between three and four cases each, while Limbang did not record any cases.
Tiong stressed that open burning, especially in hot, dry weather, can cause fires to spread quickly and degrade air quality.
“The public is advised not to carry out any open burning, including burning garbage or clearing land. Strict action may be taken against individuals who violate this prohibition,” he said.
