Stop open burning, Sarawakians told

2026-03-27 - 04:20

The fire and rescue department warned that open burning can cause fires to spread quickly and affect air quality, especially in hot and dry weather conditions. (Bernama pic) SIBU: The fire and rescue department has urged Sarawakians to stop the practice of open burning following a sharp increase in open fire cases in recent weeks. State deputy director Tiong Ling Hii said there was a fluctuating pattern of fires from March 15 to 26, and that cases had spiked from March 22 onwards. “The peak was on March 25 with 35 cases recorded in a 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 statement. Although the number of cases decreased slightly to 24 cases on March 26, Tiong said the situation still demanded caution and preventive action. Miri was identified as the most critical division with 59 open fires recorded, almost double the 29 reported in Sibu. This was followed by Bintulu (24), Mukah (23), Kuching (11), Betong (eight) and Sri Aman (five). Areas like Serian, Samarahan, Sarikei and Kapit recorded between three and four cases, while Limbang did not record any cases during the period. Tiong warned that open burning could cause fires to spread quickly and affect air quality, especially in hot and dry weather conditions. “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 added.