Is govt eyeing profit from fireworks legalisation, asks consumer group

KUALA LUMPUR – The decision by the government to legalise and regulate fireworks and firecrackers has baffled a consumer rights group, stating the items pose an adverse risk to the general public.

Malaysia Consumers’ Movement deputy president Beninder Singh questioned the government’s priority of increasing tax revenue from the sales of fireworks at the cost of public safety.

Beninder said this is because the misuse of the items has been known to cause general harm – including bodily injuries, sound and air pollution, property damage, as well as fatalities.

“It is also a wasteful habit.

“Not to mention the sale (of fireworks) on the black market remains a major enforcement issue, so it cannot be used as an excuse to legalise the sale of fireworks and firecrackers just because the government is looking to profit from the sales tax.

“Is the government looking to turn something so harmful (into) a means to increase revenue? Is the government running out of ideas?” he questioned when contacted by Getaran, The Vibes’ Bahasa Malaysia sister portal.

Beninder stressed that his organisation does not support the initiative and instead suggested that the government retain the fireworks ban and even increase enforcement actions against their sale.

Also weighing in on the matter was crime and security analyst, Shahul Hamid Abdul Rahim, who acknowledged that the government can indeed gain revenue from the sale of fireworks and firecrackers.

He also stated that the government could prevent further losses due to fireworks being smuggled into the country.

“Because it is a banned item, smuggling activities have led to great losses to the country.

“So if the sale (of fireworks and firecrackers) is legalised then the government can indeed gain revenue from any legal transactions,” he said.

Shahul however stressed that the government must enact strict standard operating procedures to ensure explosive materials are not misused and subsequently lead to other issues, such as causing harm or danger to the general public.

“As an example, perhaps the government could impose a time limit for their purchase, likely a day or two before a major holiday celebration.

“If left unchecked, the issue could even cause disharmony among neighbours and cause other problems within the general public,” he said.

Shahul also suggested that the government review the types of fireworks and firecrackers that are allowed to be purchased as a way to further ensure public safety.

“The fireworks also need to be approved by a government body, similar to the sales of electronic goods that require Sirim certification,” he said.

Shahul said the government must be aware that certain irresponsible individuals would look to modify these items to suit their needs and might cause harm to others.

Previously, Local Government Development Minister Nga Kor Ming said that the cabinet had agreed on legalising the sales of fireworks and firecrackers as a measure to increase the country’s revenue and that the government will control their sale.

Police also stated that they are waiting for the Home Affairs Ministry to set policies and guidelines regarding the authorisation of burning activities as well as the sale of fireworks and firecrackers.

Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani said police will adhere to any guidelines and policies set by the ministry in order to ensure public safety. – The Vibes, February 6, 2023