Miri formalises mutual aid plan for rapid response as El Nino fuels fire, haze risks

Lee (centre) officiating the MOBEMA MoU ceremony in Miri, strengthening coordinated response to El Nino-driven fires and haze. Photo credit: UKAS

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Apr 7: The El Nino phenomenon is driving hotter, drier conditions in Miri, raising the likelihood of open fires, including forest and peatland blazes, and contributing to recurring haze episodes.

In response, the State has formalised the Manual Miri Open Burning Emergency Mutual Aid (MOBEMA) through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), creating a unified framework for rapid emergency action.

According to a report by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS), the MoU was signed in a ceremony officiated by Sarawak Transport Minister and Senadin assemblyman Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin who said the initiative ensures a faster, more structured response amid heightened fire risks during the Northeast Monsoon transition.

“Miri has repeatedly experienced prolonged open burning. MOBEMA coordinates all parties for swift, effective action, ensuring safety and environmental protection,” he said during the MOBEMA MoU signing ceremony in Miri recently.

Led by the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Miri Zone, the programme brings together landowners, emergency services, and industry players under a strategic collaboration model, facilitating efficient deployment of manpower and resources while incorporating joint training exercises to prepare for multiple fire scenarios at member sites.

BOMBA director Jamri Masran said MOBEMA provides a proactive platform to manage open burning and haze, safeguarding public safety, property and the environment, while supporting the existing Disaster Management Committee rather than replacing it. — DayakDaily