File photo of the aftermath of a peatland fire in Lawas on July 24, 2024.

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By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, July 30: Kuching Division recorded the highest number of open burning cases in the past week with 20 incidents, while Kapit is the only division without any case recorded during the current heat wave and dry period.

Miri Division was in second place with 16 cases, while Mukah Division reported 12 cases.

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Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Sarawak deputy director Tiong Ling Hii however stated that the statistics covering eight days from July 22 to July 29 showed a significant 46 per cent decrease in open burning cases over the last two days.

“Data revealed a drop to 13 cases on Monday (July 29) from 24 cases on Sunday.

“Several factors contributed to the decrease, including rainfall in several areas that dampened bushes and forests and the media’s role in raising awareness about halting open burning activities in Sarawak,” he said in a statement today.

Additionally, Tiong mentioned that approximately teams from 38 Bomba stations have been deployed for daily patrols and to advise local communities across Sarawak on avoiding open burning activities.

In remote and rural areas far from Bomba stations, voluntary Bomba teams have been essential in reducing open burning cases.

Over 59 voluntary Bomba teams have been mobilised to monitor and respond to fire incidents throughout Sarawak. — DayakDaily