KUANTAN: A total of 70 hotspots have been detected in Pahang since early March, a massive increase compared to only 26 hotspots recorded the month before.
Pahang Department of Environment (DoE) director Rosli Zul said this is due to a combination of factors, namely the hot weather as well as uncontrolled open burning activities by irresponsible parties.
“Pekan has the most number of hotspots at 34, followed by Rompin at 21, Jerantut (5), Temerloh, Kuantan, Lipis and Temerloh at two each, as well as Bera and Bentong with one hotspot each,” he said, adding that this month saw a sharp increase in the number of hotspots, due to open burning in plantations and peat land.
“When there is hot and dry weather, coupled with an extended period of no rain, this will definitely contribute to the rise in the number of hotspots.
“This increase can be attributed to the large number of open burning cases, triggered either on purpose or by accident, which would impact air quality and lead to the haze,” he said.
Rosli urged the people of Pahang to refrain from conducting any open burning in this hot weather, as it could affect air quality.
“Plantation companies as well as the public need to act responsibly. Those found to be conducting open burning could be charged in court.
“They face a maximum compound of RM2,000 or RM500,000 fine or five years’ jail or both, upon conviction,” he said.
The public can contact the department at its toll-free line (1-800-88-2727) if they have information on those responsible for open burning cases.