Kota Kinabalu: The spike in open burning cases across Sabah in the first quarter this year mirrors a series of incidents involving major fire stations, particularly in high-risk districts such as Tuaran, Lintas and Papar.
Sabah Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) statistics show BBP Tuaran recording the most open burning cases at 74 since January, followed by BBP Lintas (40), BBP Kimanis (32), BBP Papar (31) and BBP Putatan (30).
In one of the largest incidents, a tyre dump fire covering several acres broke out at the Kayu Madang landfill in Telipok, requiring a multi-station response involving BBP Tuaran, BBP Lintas and BBP Kota Kinabalu.
The blaze, which generated thick smoke and required firebreak operations, highlighted the challenges of containing fires in dry conditions and waste sites.
Another major fire in Tuaran destroyed about 700 used vehicles after flames from a nearby bush fire spread into a storage area, further illustrating how open burning or vegetation fires can escalate into large-scale incidents.
Tuaran also recorded residential fire incidents, including a case in Tamparuli where a house was nearly destroyed and a man sustained burn injuries.
Sabah JBPM warned that prolonged dry weather, coupled with open burning activities, significantly increases the risk of uncontrolled fires, including bush and landfill fires.
It stressed that open burning is strictly prohibited and urged the public to refrain from such activities, particularly during periods influenced by the El Niño phenomenon.
It also advised residents to remain vigilant, clear combustible materials around their surroundings and report any fire incidents immediately via the 999 emergency hotline.
