No hotspots detected in Labuan: Dept
Published on: Saturday, March 23, 2024
By: Bernama
The Department of Environment (DoE) in Labuan has reported that no hotspots have been detected on the duty-free island despite the prolonged dry spell. - pix Bernama
LABUAN: The Department of Environment (DoE) in Labuan has reported that no hotspots have been detected on the duty-free island despite the prolonged dry spell.
Labuan DoE Director Zulfadzli Zakaria confirmed that satellite images showed no hotspots on the island.
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He also reminded all parties to refrain from open-burning activities. Section 29(A) of the Environmental Quality Act 1974 stipulates that those convicted of open burning may face a fine of up to RM500,000, a maximum jail term of five years, or both.
“Additionally, a maximum compound of RM2,000 can be imposed for each violation,” he said Friday.
Zulfadzli advised members of the public to work closely with authorities in extinguishing small fires and report cases of open burning or fire to the Fire and Rescue Department, as well as the DoE, by calling 087- 408772 or 010-2708772 or through the DoE’s complaint portal at https://eaduan.doe.gov.my/.
The Labuan Meteorological Office has advised the public against engaging in open burning activities as the current dry spell is expected to persist until the second quarter of this year.
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It said the end of the Northeast Monsoon and the El Nino phenomenon were contributing factors to the ongoing dry conditions.
Highlighting the severity of the situation, the office disclosed that Labuan had experienced significantly reduced rainfall since January 2024, with precipitation ranging between a mere 2.8mm to 29.6mm.
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