Individuals found carrying out open burning in Selangor could face fines of up to RM1 million as the state steps up enforcement amid worsening haze and air quality.
Selangor Public Health and Environment Committee chairman Jamaliah Jamaluddin said the state government was taking the deteriorating air quality seriously, particularly in several areas along the west coast.
She said areas including Johan Setia, Banting, Klang and Shah Alam had recorded worsening conditions after the Air Pollutant Index (API) reached unhealthy levels.
“The Selangor State Executive Council meeting today has activated the National Haze Action Plan through the Department of Environment (DOE).
“Following the unhealthy air quality, all local authorities will intensify monitoring to prevent open burning, particularly in residential, commercial and industrial areas,” she said in a statement today.
Jamaliah said those found responsible for open burning could face action under Section 29(A) of the Environmental Quality Act 1974.
Upon conviction, offenders can be fined between RM25,000 and RM1 million, jailed for up to five years, or both. An additional fine of up to RM5,000 a day may also be imposed for a continuing offence after a notice has been served.
The state government is also advising the public to minimise outdoor activities unless necessary for work or school, particularly those with respiratory-related health conditions.
Schools across Selangor have been issued precautionary notices to protect students, especially those located in areas where API readings have exceeded 100.
Jamaliah said schools, kindergartens and childcare centres would have to close if the API reading reached 200.
Meanwhile, the State Disaster Management Committee will meet on Thursday under the chairmanship of Selangor State Secretary Datuk Dr Ahmad Fadzli Ahmad Tajuddin to discuss additional measures to reduce the impact of the haze.
The meeting will take into account the latest weather forecasts and air quality data in determining further action.
Jamaliah also urged the public to immediately report any open burning activities to the Selangor DOE hotline at 1-800-88-2727 or through the DOE’s eAduan application.
She warned that haze could affect not only air quality but also public health, particularly among children, senior citizens, pregnant women and people with heart or respiratory conditions.
“These groups are advised to remain indoors, limit strenuous outdoor activities and wear a face mask if they need to go outside,” she said.
