Crackdown on dangerous firecrackers

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, October 20 — The festive season is upon us and the nationwide crackdown by Malaysian authorities on smuggling activities related to firecrackers and fireworks should be commended.

The joy that comes in the celebration of Hari Raya, Deepavali, Christmas and the Chinese New Year, should not turn to tears, as it could certainly become a sorrowful occasion for some families if they allowed their minor children to play with firecrackers and fireworks without adult supervision.

Further, it could have an adverse impact, if authorities are not vigilant and alert in countering smuggling activities that are rampant during that time of the year when religious and cultural festivities are anticipated with great enthusiasm and exciting culinary preparations herald auspicious days.

Lately, the crackdowns by the Enforcement and Prevention Units for smuggling have been fairly successful in seizing not only common firecrackers but also a special variety called "Kelapa Pandan," the latest offering on sale, which is capable of causing loud explosions that can be heard several kilometers away.

During these festive seasons, almost always, children in Malaysia have known to suffer injuries while playing with firecrackers, unsupervised. One can read such incidents daily in the newspapers. However, these accidents and sufferings can be avoided if due diligence is applied.

What is heart breaking is that most children not only suffer injuries and burns but are also left mutilated and disfigured. All these "hazards" could become non-issues if the following actions are implemented strictly for the safety of citizens.

First, the authorities should liaise with fireworks and firecracker exporting countries such as China, Thailand and Indonesia as well as importers in Malaysia to crack down on illegal imports.

Second, jail sentences and hefty fines should be imposed on retailers selling illegal firecrackers especially those smuggled into the country.

Third, some sort of stern action should be taken against people caught playing with specific types and kinds of firecrackers and fireworks that are dangerous and capable of causing harm to public and property.

Last but not the least, a mandatory (and deterrent) jail sentence should be metered out to smugglers including the confiscation of their property and assets and the vehicle in which the contraband is found.

Offending parties do not take into serious consideration the fact that they are breaking laws related to smuggling, distribution and sale of the contraband. Smuggled firecrackers and fireworks are supposed to be banned. Therefore, smuggling, distribution and sale of firecrackers and fireworks can only be stopped by enforcing strict laws and the public should not buy such goods.

Let us collectively ensure that on festive and happy occasions, joy does not turn to sorrow.