00:01A lawyer has called for a nationwide ban on firecrackers, accusing the authorities of neglecting their duty to enforce existing laws intended to ensure public safety.
00:11Rajesh Nagarajan said a total ban was necessary after two separate incidents last month leading up to Hari Raya Idol Fitri saw a teenager lose a finger and young siblings suffer multiple burns.
00:23He said that while their parents may have neglected their duty to ensure the children's safety, the authorities must also bear responsibility for failing to enforce laws intended to prevent such accidents.
00:35Rajesh said the issue lies in having good laws but weak enforcement.
00:40He also said public awareness campaigns are no longer enough as firecrackers continue to be sold and bought despite being widely known that they can cause unexpected harm.
00:49He said only a complete ban or near total control as practice in Singapore and India would end the sale and purchase cycle.
00:57Firecrackers and fireworks in Malaysia are regulated under the Explosives Act 1957 and the Minor Offences Act 1955 where only 46 types of firecrackers and fireworks are legally permitted for sale.
