Alor setar: The Kedah Department of Environment (DOE) has received 142 complaints on open burning from Jan 1 to March 22, indicating a rising trend in such activities statewide. Its director Sharifah Zakiah Syed Sahab said the actual number of incidents may be significantly higher, as not all cases are reported to the department.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the current dry spell has heightened concerns about the ease with which fires can spread, becoming uncontrollable and exacerbated by diminishing water sources. Uncontrolled open burning poses severe air pollution risks and safety hazards to the community, Sharifah Zakiah emphasized in a statement.

To address the issue, the state DOE has intensified field monitoring, conducting 109 enforcement patrols during the same period. These patrols will continue throughout the festive season, with the Kedah DOE working closely with the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department to identify high-risk areas prone to open burning. The initiative aims to detect fire sources early, particularly at waste disposal sites, agricultural land, and residential areas. Patrols also focus on raising awareness and issuing direct warnings about the dangers of open burning.

Meanwhile, Sharifah Zakiah stated that the department would take stern action against any individual or company found committing the offence. Legal action is being pursued in several cases, including one at an illegal dumpsite in Baling. Open burning is a serious offence under Section 29A of the Environmental Quality Act 1974. Kedah residents are urged to stop any waste burning activities to avoid legal action and health risks. The public can report incidents via the toll-free line 1-800-88-2727 or through the DOE e-Aduan portal.