From P Ramasamy

I fully agree with Johnson Fernandez’s letter on the excessive noise and vibrations caused by fireworks during the ongoing Chinese New Year celebrations this year.

The intensity of these fireworks has reached such a level that they shake windows and produce deafening explosions, often being mistaken for bomb blasts.

While restrictions on firecrackers exist during festive seasons, they 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 events.

Fireworks have become so ingrained in Malaysian culture that they are even used during funeral processions.

The Chinese New Year celebrations this year featured an unprecedented display of loud fireworks.

Despite the well-known hazards – including noise pollution, distress to the elderly and infants, and even risks of physical harm – the authorities have remained silent.

Singapore has a total ban on fireworks, showing that no cultural justification should override public safety and well-being.

In Malaysia, however, enforcement remains weak, with only minimal regulations on the hours fireworks can be used.

This lax approach has allowed festive celebrations to stretch for weeks, subjecting communities to relentless noise pollution.

The elderly, children and pets suffer greatly from these uncontrolled display of fireworks.

Festive celebrations should be rooted in mutual respect and understanding, but the indiscriminate use of fireworks does the opposite – causing distress and frustration to many.

There are countless meaningful ways to celebrate cultural and religious identities without excessive use of fireworks.

It’s time for the authorities to take decisive action, enforcing stricter regulations without fear or favour.

While some groups are seeking to limit social interactions between Muslims and non-Muslims during festive celebrations, little attention is given to the 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 disrupt or cause distress to others.

The government must act to ensure celebrations remain joyous without burdening others.

P Ramasamy is Urimai chairman, a former Penang deputy chief minister and a former academic at UKM.

The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of FMT.