No rest for the weary as secondary forest fires spread in Kota Belud

KOTA KINABALU: Firefighters in Kota Belud district have been working tirelessly for two consecutive days to combat forest fires caused by the drought and irresponsible open burning activities.

On Sunday (March 10), they successfully extinguished nearly 324ha (800 acres) of secondary forest and brush fires.

However, their efforts were immediately required again on Monday (March 11) when other areas in the district, such as Kg Kimo-Kimo, Kg Kondis, Kg Pompod, Kg Song-Song, and Kg Lingkodon Kota Belud, were engulfed in flames.

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The affected area has now surpassed 809ha (2,000 acres), according to Sabah Fire and Rescue Department assistant director of operations, Hamsa Isnurdini.

“We have had to seek assistance from Kota Marudu to help combat these fires,” he mentioned.

To battle the wildfires, the firefighters are employing various techniques, ranging from traditional hoses to water bombing using helicopters.

Ground personnel have described the extinguishing process as challenging due to the dry conditions and wind, which are causing the fires to spread rapidly.

They emphasized the high risk during the dry spell, as even the smallest ember could ignite into a major fire.

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Last Sunday (March 10), Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department director-general, Datuk Nor Hisham Mohammad, issued a reminder to the public to refrain from open burning.

He cautioned that individuals caught engaging in such activities could face fines of up to RM2,000 for each offense; they may also be taken to court and, if convicted, be fined up to RM500,000, imprisoned for five years, or both.