The Menace of Festive Fireworks

A Growing Concern for Public Health and Well-being

From P Ramasamy

I fully agree with Johnson Fernandez’s letter on the excessive noise and vibrations caused by fireworks during the ongoing Chinese New Year celebrations this year.

The intensity of these fireworks has reached such a level that they shake windows and produce deafening explosions, often being mistaken for bomb blasts.

Unregulated and Widespread Use of Fireworks

While restrictions on firecrackers exist during festive seasons, they have proven ineffective.

The reality is that fireworks are used indiscriminately, not just during Chinese New Year, but also during Deepavali and other religious or cultural events.

Fireworks have become so ingrained in Malaysian culture that they are even used during funeral processions.

Consequences of Unchecked Fireworks

The Chinese New Year celebrations this year featured an unprecedented display of loud fireworks.

Despite the well-known hazards – including noise pollution, distress to the elderly and infants, and even risks of physical harm – the authorities have remained silent.

The elderly, children, and pets suffer greatly from these uncontrolled displays of fireworks.

A Call for Stricter Regulations and Enforcement

Singapore has a total ban on fireworks, showing that no cultural justification should override public safety and well-being.

In Malaysia, however, enforcement remains weak, with only minimal regulations on the hours fireworks can be used.

This lax approach has allowed festive celebrations to stretch for weeks, subjecting communities to relentless noise pollution.

A Better Way Forward

Festive celebrations should be rooted in mutual respect and understanding, but the indiscriminate use of fireworks does the opposite – causing distress and frustration to many.

There are countless meaningful ways to celebrate cultural and religious identities without excessive use of fireworks.

It’s time for the authorities to take decisive action, enforcing stricter regulations without fear or favour.

While some groups are seeking to limit social interactions between Muslims and non-Muslims during festive celebrations, little attention is given to the widespread nuisance caused by fireworks.

This selective enforcement is unacceptable.

Malaysia must strike a balance between cultural expression and public well-being.

Fireworks should not disrupt or cause distress to others.

The government must act to ensure celebrations remain joyous without burdening others.

Conclusion

The menace of festive fireworks has become a growing concern for public health and well-being. It is essential for the authorities to take a proactive approach in regulating and enforcing the use of fireworks. A total ban on fireworks, as implemented in Singapore, would be a more effective way to ensure public safety and well-being.

FAQs

• What are the hazards associated with the use of fireworks?
  Noise pollution, distress to the elderly and infants, and risks of physical harm
• How can we celebrate cultural and religious identities without excessive use of fireworks?
  There are countless meaningful ways to celebrate, such as through cultural performances, traditional dress, and community gatherings
• Why is selective enforcement of fireworks regulations unacceptable?
  It leads to a lack of balance between cultural expression and public well-being, causing unnecessary distress to many
• What can be done to address the menace of festive fireworks?
  The authorities must take decisive action, enforcing stricter regulations and ensuring that celebrations remain joyous without burdening others