MIRI: The public has been urged to refrain from open burning following the current hot and dry weather conditions, which pose a risk of haze and peatland fires that are difficult to control in Miri Division.

Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said open burning not only affects air quality, but also has the potential to trigger major fires, especially in peatland areas that are highly flammable during dry spells.

In this regard, he directed all agencies under the Miri Divisional Disaster Management Committee (DDMC) to remain on a high state of alert and respond swiftly to any potential disaster situation.

“This preparedness is important to ensure every incident can be handled promptly and effectively, while minimising the impact on the safety of residents and the environment,” he said.

He said this when attending a briefing session by the Miri DDMC, here on Thursday.

The Chairman of the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) stressed that all operational assets and equipment must remain in good condition and ready for deployment at any time.

Earlier, a briefing by relevant agencies covered the current haze, fire, water supply and health situation in Miri Division.

A report by the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) stated that 23 hotspots have been detected so far, with seven cases still under investigation.

According to NREB, monitoring of the open burning ban has been carried out continuously, particularly in the Kuala Baram peat swamp area since early March, in addition to hotspot verification in commercial plantations to determine the cause of incidents.

Also present were Sarawak Transport Minister and Minister responsible for Miri DDMC Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin and Miri Division Resident as well as Chairman of Miri DDMC Galong Luang. -UKASnews