MUKAH — The Mukah Division Disaster Management Committee has ramped up its coordination efforts and strategic planning in response to worsening forest fires in the vicinity of UiTM Mukah and Mukah Airport, raising growing concerns for public safety and environmental health.
The urgent situation was addressed in a high-level meeting chaired by Mukah Division Resident, Datu Kueh Lei Poh, on Tuesday. Also in attendance were Deputy Resident Shafrie Saili and Mukah District Officer Peleadzman Ahip, along with representatives from technical agencies and NGOs.
Datu Kueh said the current dry conditions caused by the Southwest Monsoon have exacerbated fire risks, especially when combined with local thunderstorms that may still occur across northern Sarawak.
“With the fires spreading rapidly, we must intensify integrated monitoring and prevent their encroachment into high-risk zones,” he said. “We are considering the development of a large-scale fire breaker system as a preventive measure.”
He emphasised the importance of collective action from all agencies and the public, urging full mobilisation of available resources. The committee’s proposed action plan includes enhanced patrols, public awareness campaigns, and strengthened on-ground coordination.
Mukah has recently recorded the highest Air Pollution Index (API) levels in Malaysia, prompting serious warnings from authorities. Datu Kueh strongly cautioned the public against open burning activities, noting that legal action would be taken against violators.
“The health of our people and the operational safety of our airport are at stake. We must act now,” he said.
Datu Kueh also expressed gratitude to elected representatives and frontline agencies for their immediate response and field support. He praised the collaborative spirit, noting that swift and unified action reflects the region’s shared commitment to safeguarding lives and livelihoods.
