Tragedy Beckons, Does Anyone Care?
A Call to Action for a Safer and More Considerate Celebration
From Johnson Fernandez
As I write this, I am still reeling from the chaos and disruption caused by the fireworks set off during the Chinese New Year celebrations. The incessant booms and flashes of light that pierced the night sky, starting at 11pm and continuing until 2am, left me feeling frustrated and concerned for the safety of my family and neighbors.
A Lack of Consideration
It’s not just the noise and light that bothers me, but the complete disregard for those who do not participate in the celebrations. For many of us, today and tomorrow are working and school days, and the constant disruptions make it difficult to function normally. Where is the consideration, celebrants? Don’t we deserve a little respect and understanding?
A New and More Dangerous Variety of Fireworks
But there’s a more pressing concern that I’d like to bring to light. This year, I noticed a new and more dangerous variety of fireworks being used. They sounded more like explosives than fireworks, with sticks of dynamite-like booms that made the ground vibrate and windows rattle. Have these new, more powerful fireworks caused structural damage that could come back to haunt us in the near future?
The Need for Enforcement
As recently as last year, the police issued guidelines on the sale and use of fireworks. Only 45 types of fireworks from two specific brands are legal for sale to the public, and of these, 36 are legal for purchase from small businesses and bazaars. Fireworks can only be sold 15 days before and after a festive season, and it’s an offence to play with loud fireworks between 12am and 6am.
So, where is the enforcement? Who is responsible? The customs department, the police, or the local councils? It’s time for all of them to step up and take action to ensure our safety and peace of mind.
What Does it Take to Trigger Action?
What does it take to trigger action? A tragedy of monumental proportions? Will only that jolt the authorities to spring into action? Please, let’s not wait for one to happen. It’s time for us to demand change and take responsibility for our own safety and well-being.
Conclusion
As we move forward, I urge everyone to consider the impact of their actions on those around them. Let’s work together to create a safer and more considerate celebration, one that respects the rights and well-being of all individuals.
FAQs
Q: What are the guidelines for the sale and use of fireworks in Malaysia?
A: Only 45 types of fireworks from two specific brands are legal for sale to the public, and of these, 36 are legal for purchase from small businesses and bazaars.
Q: When can fireworks be sold?
A: Fireworks can only be sold 15 days before and after a festive season, such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Aidiladha, Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Christmas, Gawai and Kaamatan.
Q: Is it an offence to play with loud fireworks between 12am and 6am?
A: Yes, it is an offence to play with loud fireworks between 12am and 6am.
Q: Who is responsible for enforcing the guidelines?
A: The customs department, the police, and the local councils are all responsible for enforcing the guidelines.