UNREGULATED and unlicenced open burning has caused multiple health problems for humans, says Dr Simon Sinang Bada (GPS-Tebedu).
He added that economic activities such oil palm plantation often require opening up new land.
“If unchecked, these plantation owners will do open burning, which could caused haze.
“As we know, haze has brought disaster to our daily activities, normal activities put to a standstill because of poor Air Pollution Index (API).
“Therefore, it is extremely important that we enhance and strengthen our Natural Resources and Environment Bill or ordinance to protect our environment.”
Dr Sinang said this when debating on the Natural Resources and Environment Bill, 2024 during the second meeting of the third session of the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting on Tuesday (Nov 12).
Meanwhile, he said in the case of hill paddy shifting cultivators who cut down an area for the purpose of paddy planting and do open burning, he appealed to the Minister and The Controller to exclude these activities from the requirement to apply licences for open burning, as well as from associated penalties.
“If compounded, it will leave the poor farmers with a financial burden that creates a deep and significant hole in their pockets.”
Additionally, Dr Sinang raised concerns about the illegal dumping of scheduled waste, particularly radioactive materials, describing it as highly damaging to human health and the environment.
