The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry has opened 43 investigation papers on open burning to be produced in court for legal action.
Its minister Datuk Seri G. Palanivel said the ministry had slapped 303 compounds for open burning and issued 94 warning letters from January until July 12.
He said 4,371 cases had been recorded so far this year — 897 cases in forest areas, 1,433 in agricultural areas, 34 cases in industrial areas, 897 cases in construction sites, and 69 cases involving landfills, 1,003 cases in bush areas while 803 involved small open burning cases.
“We will beef up enforcement during the haze season, which could lead to arrests of individuals believed to be responsible for committing offences.”
Palanivel said a provision in the act allowed the ministry’s officers to arrest individuals without the need for a warrant, adding that some 194 officers had been given training and special authorisation letters to enforce the provision.
Those convicted face a maximum fine of RM500,000 and five years’ jail. The ministry could also impose RM2,000 fine for smaller offences.
