Curbing The Fireworks Menace A Call For Responsible Celebrations

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I FULLY agree with Johnson Fernandez’s article (FMT, Feb 8) regarding the excessive noise and vibrations caused by fireworks during the recent Chinese New Year celebrations.
The intensity of these fireworks has reached a level where they shake windows and create deafening explosions, often mistaken for bomb blasts.
While there are supposed to be restrictions on firecrackers during festive seasons, these curbs 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 celebrations.
In fact, fireworks have become so ingrained in Malaysian culture that they are even used during funeral processions.
The recent Chinese New Year saw an unprecedented display of loud and aggressive fireworks.
Despite being fully aware of the potential hazards including noise pollution, distress to the elderly and infants, and even risks of physical harm authorities have remained conspicuously silent.
Singapore has implemented a total ban on firecrackers, demonstrating that no cultural justification is sufficient to override public safety and well-being.
(Image: Pexels/Suvan Chowdhury)In Malaysia, however, enforcement remains weak, with only minimal regulations on permitted hours for fireworks usage.
This lax approach has allowed festive celebrations to extend for weeks, subjecting communities to relentless noise pollution.
Elderly individuals, young children, and even pets suffer immensely from these uncontrolled fireworks displays.
Those unfamiliar with the ongoing festive season might easily mistake the loud explosions for acts of violence or emergencies.
Festive celebrations should be rooted in mutual respect and understanding, but the indiscriminate use of fireworks achieves the opposite, causing distress and irritation to many.
There are countless meaningful ways to celebrate cultural and religious identity without resorting to excessive fireworks.
It is time for the authorities to take decisive action, enforcing stricter regulations without fear or favour.
While some groups seek to curb social interactions between Muslims and non-Muslims in festival celebrations, little attention is paid to the very real and 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 be a license for disruption and distress. The government must act to ensure that celebrations remain joyous without becoming a burden on others. 
Former DAP stalwart and Penang chief minister II Prof Ramasamy Palanisamy is chairman of the United Rights of Malaysian Party (Urimai) interim council.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT. 
- Focus Malaysia.

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