Johor bahru: The peak of the Southwest Monsoon, expected between July and September, could lead to localised and cross-border haze if open burning activities are not kept in check. Johor Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) director Siti Rohani Nadir emphasized the potential risks associated with the monsoon period, noting that while this year’s monsoon is not expected to be extreme, the prolonged dry spell could still pose serious health risks, water supply shortages, forest and bush fires, as well as disruptions to the agricultural sector.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has advised the public to be alert to health risks such as dehydration and heatstroke. Siti Rohani stressed the importance of limiting outdoor activities during midday, wearing appropriate clothing, and staying hydrated throughout the day. She also advised the public to stay updated on weather forecasts and take preventive measures to minimise the impact of heat and potential fires during this period.

Siti Rohani noted that from the start of the Southwest Monsoon in May until early June, Johor recorded 108 open burning cases, with the majority occurring in non-peatland areas. She explained that the combination of hot, dry weather and uncontrolled open burning was the main cause behind these incidents. Monitoring data revealed that bushfires on non-peatland accounted for 54.36 percent of reported cases, followed by garbage fires at 29.11 percent, farm or orchard fires at 9.98 percent, and wood or timber waste fires at 1.89 percent. Only five peatland fire cases were reported, mostly caused by garbage burning, which are harder to extinguish due to the soil’s ability to retain heat and embers.

Siti Rohani urged the public to avoid open burning, highlighting the difficulty in controlling such fires and the serious health risks and air quality degradation they pose. She called on the public to immediately report any such incidents to the authorities.