Monsoon shift lowers open burning cases, triggers rise in fallen tree incidents

KUALA LUMPUR - Open burning cases nationwide have shown a significant decline following recent rainfall, with daily incidents now nearly halved compared to last week.

Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) director-general Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad said the trend of open burning, including large-scale fires exceeding two hectares, has dropped drastically to nearly zero.

"Last week, we received more than 240 open burning cases daily, but now we are only receiving about 119 to 120 cases,” he said at a press conference after officiating the Community Fire Learning Centre (CFLC) at Sri Hartamas Fire and Rescue Station here today.

He said most open burning incidents in the country were caused by human activities, albeit with different motives.

"Some people burn rubbish or clear their land, and the fire spreads, while others involve agricultural land clearing that eventually leads to larger fires,” he said, cautioning the public against open burning.

It was earlier reported that fires involving forests, bushes, farms and plantations in the country surged sharply from January until March 31 this year, with 12,938 cases recorded.

However, Nor Hisham said the monsoon transition, which brings thunderstorms and localised strong winds, has now led to an increase in fallen tree incidents in several areas, with around 20 cases reported daily.

He said instructions have been issued to all fire and rescue stations to adjust operational priorities by focusing on preparedness for fallen tree incidents, while continuing to monitor open burning.

In another development, Nor Hisham said JBPM is strengthening its public education efforts through the establishment of CFLC centres, including its 14th centre at Sri Hartamas Fire and Rescue Station.

He said the centre not only provides fire safety exposure to children but is also open to the local community for various activities incorporating fire education elements.

He added that the initiative is a long-term strategic approach to enhance public awareness and knowledge to reduce fire risks. - BERNAMA