PUTRAJAYA should reconsider its decision to legalise and regulate the sale of fireworks and firecrackers, consumer groups said.

They said the government should first strengthen enforcement to curb the smuggling of fireworks into the country before deciding to regulate the goods.

Consumer groups expressed concern over the legality of fireworks as they are classified in the same category as dynamite, which is harmful to people.

A week ago, Local Government Development Minister Nga Kor Ming said the Home Ministry will draw up regulations to cover the import and sale of firecrackers and fireworks following the cabinet’s decision to legalise them.

Nga said the final decision is subject to approval by authorities on matters such as import licences and duties.

The Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) said there have been many cases of injury caused by firecrackers, adding that the move to legalise their sale should be reconsidered.

Fomca deputy secretary-general Nur Asyikin Aminuddin said by allowing the sale of fireworks, syndicates will find it easy to smuggle the item into the country by faking import permits.

“Even when there is a licence provided, syndicates will copy and make fake licences to smuggle the fireworks into our country,” said Nur Asyikin.

On Monday, several health organisations expressed concern over the matter.

The Malaysian Paediatric Association and the Asia-Pacific Paediatric Associations, among others, said children are vulnerable since they are unaware of the dangers of firecrackers.

Common injuries include burns, cuts, loss of fingers, and eye damage.

“As senior doctors (paediatricians, surgeons and public health specialists) who have worked with the damaging effects of fireworks, we have experience with numerous children who have lost their fingers and eyes, resulting in life-long disability,” the group said.

Persatuan Pengguna Islam Malaysia said there is no urgency for the government to push ahead with the plan.

Its president Nadzim Johan said the current ruling of fireworks being illegal should be maintained.

“I don’t see the need or the urgency to legalise this. Just let it be the way it is right now, where authorities take action against those found smuggling firecrackers or selling them on the black market.

“No need to legalise it. It is the same concept as legalising prostitution or ‘ah long’ (loan sharks). This is not going to take us forward as a nation,” said Nadzim.

Prior to this, Nga said licensing would involve importers and wholesalers.

“The use of firecrackers is a normal practice among Malaysians. People will play with firecrackers during Hari Raya, Deepavali, and even Christmas.

“This can bring millions of ringgit in revenue to the government if firecrackers are allowed. 

“By legalising them, we can shut down syndicates smuggling firecrackers and fireworks,” Nga was quoted as saying during his ministry’s Chinese New Year open house celebration. – February 10, 2023.