KOTA KINABALU: While the haze in the state is still under control, the Sabah Department of Environment (DoE) has issued the do’s and don’ts to prevent the situation from worsening.
As of 9am yesterday, the state capital’s Air Pollutant Index (API) reading was 55, which is the highest in Sabah, followed by Sandakan and Tawau at 45, and Keningau (43).
In a statement from the department yesterday, it advised the public to refrain from open burning, including traditional farmers, plantation and construction companies and industrial premises; and to properly dispose of cigarette butts.
“There should be no open burning at housing estates as the garbage will be collected and disposed of by contractors appointed by the local authorities, while those doing land clearing are also reminded not to burn the branches and trees openly,” the statement read.
It added that the department would be conducting inspection at fire-prone areas statewide and would not hesitate to take action against those who fail to abide by the rules and regulations.
Offenders can be charged under Section 29A of the Environmental Quality Act 1974, which carries a maximum fine of RM2,000, and if charged in court, they can be fined not more than RM500,000, or jailed not more than five years, or both, if found guilty.
The public is also called on to help put out small fires or report to the Fire and Rescue Services Department at 088-422 652/088-422 173 (fax) or the Sabah DoE on open burning at 088-488 166 or 488 167/088-488 177 or 488 178 (fax), or Hotline: 1-800-88-2727.
For those wishing to keep track of the API, visit the website www.apims.doe.gov.my.