MIRI: While there was some success by authorities to extinguish the peat fire in Sungai Adong here, a new fire prompted firefighting operations to be continued for its third day.
Director of the Miri Maritime Zone Captain Mohd Shafie Paing said the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) employed a Bombardier CL-415 to carry out water bombing yesterday (Mar 28).
The operation used a total of 42,000 litres of water to extinguish the peat fire in Sungai Adong, allowing 80 percent of the affected area to be rehabilitated.
“However, a new fire area has been detected near Kuala Baram National School, estimated to cover approximately 60 acres.
“As a result, the Maritime Malaysia aircraft will continue firefighting operations in the area starting this morning,” he said.
Previously, the operation was halted due to reduced visibility yesterday evening.
He urged the public to avoid open burning activities as with the current weather condition, it could turn small fires into disasters.
For inquiries and assistances, the public can reach out to the MERS 999 hotline for assistance.
