Open burning could endanger flight safety

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MIRI: Open burning on land between Taman Jelita, Taman Tunku and Miri Airport could be a safety hazard for flights coming in and out of Miri Airport.

Lambir assemblyman Ripin Lamat called on residents in the area not to conduct open burning as it has contributed to hazy conditions.

“Stop open burning as it poses a danger to health and flights coming in and out of Miri,” he said in response to the many bushes fire reported in the area.

Ripin said there were areas where residents had started fires to prepare the land for roadside gardens during the dry spell.

“I hope all parties concerned, those involved in open burning will adhere to the NREB (Natural Resources and Environment Board) and Jabatan Alam Sekitar (Department of Environment) to prevent more bushfires,” he stressed.

Ripin, who is a political secretary to the Chief Minister, added that all relevant government agencies should prepare for the upcoming dry spell, which is expected to last for a few months.

He said the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba), NREB and DOE are now working extra hard to monitor illegal open burning.

Both the DOE and NREB have also issued directives to companies and plantations not to conduct open burning during the dry spell.

He said longhouses in Ulu Sibuti, Telajin, Bukit Kisi and Peninjau should also keep a close watch on water levels and seek assistance if there is a water shortage.

Miri folk can contact the Miri Resident’s office operations room on 085-416625.