Residents of Ipoh, Perak, have increasingly embraced urban gardening and neighborhood green spaces, but concerns have risen over the continued practice of open burning to clear garden waste. This issue comes amid Malaysia’s ongoing haze problem, which public health and environmental experts warn can be exacerbated by such activities.

Despite the availability of free bulk and garden waste collection services each month, some individuals persist in burning organic waste locally. Open burning contributes to air pollution, raising alarms especially during periods of poor air quality.

Under the Environmental Quality Act, specifically Section 29A, individuals found guilty of open burning can face significant penalties, including fines up to RM1 million or imprisonment of up to five years. Additionally, local authorities like the Ipoh City Council may issue on-the-spot fines or compounds based on their by-laws.

Environmental enforcement falls primarily to the Department of Environment (DOE), which has faced criticism for perceived laxity in addressing these violations. Calls have been made for the DOE and local councils to enhance their oversight and enforcement efforts to prevent further incidents.

The DOE’s director-general has the authority to delegate enforcement powers to other government bodies, including the police, whose patrols could incorporate surveillance for open burning activity. Integrating these efforts could not only improve compliance but also generate revenue through issued fines.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has emphasized the need for greater interagency collaboration and breaking down bureaucratic silos within the government. While addressing complex transboundary haze issues requires coordination beyond national agencies, tackling internal illegal burning should be manageable through unified local action.

Experts and officials alike stress that open burning should no longer be treated as a minor infraction, given its environmental and public health impacts. Stronger enforcement and public education campaigns are viewed as essential measures to reduce smoke pollution and encourage responsible waste disposal among residents.