As we are in the midst of the crazy haze conditions that are expected to last till October, the authorities have implemented a temporary ban nationwide on all forms of open burning, not including cremations and religious rituals with IMMEDIATE EFFECT.
This is an attempt to reduce the harmful effects of the haze.
Source: The Borneo Post
Department of Environment director-general Norlin Jaafar said that this ban is enforced under the Environment Quality Act 1974, which would require violators to pay a fine of up to RM500,000 or serve a sentence of no more than five years in prison per offence.
“All parties are requested not to conduct open burning, or allow entry or trespass into their property and premises by irresponsible quarters that lead to open burning, either intentional or otherwise,” she said.
Source: Blogspot
This prohibition will last until the end of the current monsoon season, reported Malay Mail.
According to the official Air Pollution Index, 21 areas in Malaysia have been reported to have “unhealthy” air conditions while places like Rompin, Pahang were listed under the “very unhealthy” range.
Earlier today (11th Sept), the Sarawak Education Department announced that the schools closed due to the haze yesterday have been reopened.
Source: Malay Mail
Energy, Science Technology, Environment and Climate Change Minister Yeo Bee Yin said that the current dry spell and monsoonal winds have made the the situation in Malaysia even worse.
She said that “the federal government will attempt cloud seeding to mitigate once this is possible and continue urging Jakarta to accept help in combating the raging fires within its borders”.
Oh no, the haze situation has become so bad! Remember not to conduct any open fires and remember to stay indoors as much as possible! Stay hydrated, guys.
Also read: The Haze is So Bad That Najib Had to Cancel His Court Session Today Because of an Eye Infection
