46% drop in open burning cases amid rain, media and patrols

KUCHING: Sarawak has witnessed a decline in the number of open burning cases between Sunday (July 28) and Monday (July 29).

Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) deputy director Tiong Ling Hii said the data has shown a 46 per cent decrease in cases recorded on Monday compared to Sunday.

The number of cases declined from 24 cases on Sunday to 13 cases on Monday.

He added that several factors have contributed to the decline in open burning cases, including recent rain, role of the media, monitoring patrols and the Volunteer Fire Brigade’s involvement.

“Rain in several areas in Sarawak have dampened conditions thus, slowing down the burning process.

“The media also released articles regarding open burning, which has helped a lot in reducing the burning activities. Various channels are used, ranging from print, electronic and social media platforms have been used to spread the word to stop all forms of open burning,” he said in a statement.

Handout photo show the open burning cases across 12 divisions.

Tiong added that 38 fire and rescue stations have been mobilised to carry out monitoring patrols to provide advice to residents on open burning activities.

Patrols are conducted daily, including at night, using the fire trucks and utility vehicles.

“For areas far from fire stations, the Volunteer Fire Brigades will play their role in assisting the department reduce open burning cases.

“Fifty-nine Voluntary Fire Brigades have been mobilised to monitor and advise residents not to engage in open burning activities, in addition to being the first responders in fire cases,” he said.

Throughout the eight-day period from July 22 to 29, Kuching recorded the highest number of open burning cases with 20 cases.

Miri came in second with 16 cases, followed by Mukah in third with 12 cases. Kapit is the only division that did not record any open burning during the hot and dry weather.