SEBERANG PRAI: A construction site here was slapped with a RM2,000 compound for open burning yesterday.
The open burning incident was uncovered during a routine check by officers from the Department of Environment (DoE) around the Seberang Prai Tengah district.
State DoE director Sharifah Zakiah Syed Sahab said, during the check, they detected open burning activity at a project site under construction.
"We issued a RM2,000 compound against the premises.
"We want to advice the people to refrain from open burning activity to protect the air quality," she said today.
Sharifah said solid wastes, such as wood, could be recycled instead of being burnt.
She added that those interested could join the Zero Waste Network community to learn more.
Open burning, according to Sharifah, is an offence under Section 29A of the Environmental Quality Act 1974.
The offence is liable to a compound of RM2,000 for each burning pile and a maximum fine of RM500,000 or maximum five years imprisonment or both upon conviction.
All pollution cases can be reported to the DoE at its toll-free line at 1-800-88-2727 or e-mail to eaduan@doe.gov.my.