MALAYSIA: DOE monitoring open burning via satellite
© 1995-2001 Star Publications (Malaysia)
August 31, 2001
MALACCA: The Department of Environment (DOE) is stepping up air surveillance and ground enforcement to check on people carrying out open burning after traces of haze were found in some parts of the country.
Deputy Science, Technology and Environment Minister Datuk Zainal Dahalan said yesterday the ministry was closely monitoring the situation via satellite and DOE’s air wing.
“We are also working closely with our Indonesian counterpart to prevent and contain forest fires,” he told reporters after closing a symposium on environment for 70 school principals.Zainal said the joint committee on haze had met Indonesian officials and informed them of the coming Sea Games in the country.
He said the hazy atmosphere found in some parts of the country, caused by forest fires in Kalimantan, would not pose any problem to the Sea Games, scheduled for next weekend.
“The heavy showers that we have been experiencing of late have helped to clear the air,” he said, adding that DOE would also increase checks on vehicle exhaust emissions to further reduce environmental pollution.
Zainal said the check on vehicle and industrial smoke emissions was a routine procedure.
On the environment symposium, jointly organised by the Education Department and DOE, he said the move would encourage principals to impart their knowledge.