BY ARIANA FIDELIA
MIRI: The ongoing bushfire in Kuala Baram has affected approximately 100 hectares of land thus far.
According to Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas the bushfire occurred due to dry and hot weather conditions in Miri.
“The lack of rainfall and high temperature have created an environment suitable for fires to occur and spread.
“I was informed that the bushfire situation, which started on March 23, has affected approximately 100 hectares of bush land in Kuala Baram.
“However, I am pleased and grateful to receive the latest information that most of the fire has been successfully extinguished,” he said at a press conference before visiting the site of the bushfire today.
Uggah, who is also the Chairman of the State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC), revealed that this fire did not affect the air quality in Miri.
“I was informed that the fire has been ongoing for several days, but based on the Air Pollution Index (API), it still registers around 70, which is still within the good range, and we want to keep it that way.
“Therefore, we need to avoid open burning and immediately report to the authorities if there are any indications of fires occurring in their respective areas,” he said.
Meanwhile, he reminded residents to always be vigilant and conserve water due to prolonged dry weather in Miri.
“It is noted that there are approximately 113 villages in the Miri division experiencing water shortages.
“Efforts are being made to address this with authorities such as the Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) and LAKU Management Sdn Bhd working to provide alternative water sources and solutions to alleviate the situation.
“In addition, I also request that the District Disaster Management Committee chairpersons to monitor such situations so that we can safeguard the welfare of the people by providing the necessary assistance,” he said.
