Sarawak haze crisis prompts nationwide plea to stop open burning, shield schools and businesses

SARIKEI, Sept 5 — All parties are urged to refrain from open burning activities to prevent the haze situation in Sarawak from worsening and posing risks to public health and daily activities.

Special Select Committee on Infrastructure, Transportation and Communication chairman Datuk Yusuf Abd Wahab said all open burning activities, including the disposal of rubbish and clearing of forests through fire, must cease until the situation returns to normal.

He said precautionary measures must be stepped up following the declaration of an emergency in the Serian Division by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, yesterday.

“I urge everyone to stop open burning for now. Please do not burn rubbish or clear forests by fire. Put these activities on hold until the haze situation improves.

“We do not want this situation to continue affecting daily business, travel and other activities. Schools and many premises have had to close, and this is certainly inconvenient for everyone,” he told reporters after officiating the Tanjung Manis Parliamentary Class B2 Driving Licence Assistance Programme here today.

Yusuf, who is also the Tanjung Manis Member of Parliament, reminded the public to wear face masks when outdoors to minimise health risks caused by the haze.

The programme, organised by the Tanjung Manis Parliamentary Service Centre in collaboration with the Road Transport Department (JPJ) Sarikei Branch, attracted 1,014 candidates from across the parliamentary constituency.

Yusuf said the programme reflected the Government’s concern in helping low-income groups, particularly those in rural areas, to obtain valid driving licences at a lower cost.

“With a valid driving licence, the B40 group can use motorcycles to earn a living and increase their income. This will help improve their socio-economic status,” he said. — Bernama