The Consumers’ Association of Penang commends the Customs and Excise Department and the Police for the intensive nationwide crackdown on the smuggling of firecrackers and dangerous fireworks.

This clearly shows that if enforcement is beefed up, smuggling of such contraband can be curbed.

Recent crackdowns by the Padang Besar Enforcement and Prevention Unit for Smuggling have not only been successful in seizing various common firecrackers but also the larger kelapa pandan type, considered the latest in the market and known to be able to cause an explosion which can be heard from as far as one kilometre. Imagine the consequences should a firecracker of this force explode while in the grip of a child or teenager.

Take for instance the recent incident in Kelantan where five children aged between 6 and 11 suffered injuries while playing with firecrackers. What’s disheartening is that most children who fall victims to firecrackers do not merely suffer burns, but are often times left with disfigured and mutilated limbs.

The ever occurring incidence of smuggling, distribution and the sale of firecrackers and fireworks can only be stopped through strict enforcement and with the co-operation from the public not to buy the contraband.

Under section 4(2) of the Explosive Act 1957, anyone found to be manufacturing, possessing or importing firecrackers and fireworks can be jailed not less than five years or fined RM10,000 or both.

The violation of the existing laws to curb the blatant smuggling, distribution and sale of the contraband is obviously not taken seriously by the offenders.

Hence, the laws should be amended to also include the following:

1. A mandatory jail sentence for smugglers including the confiscation of his or her property and assets; and

2. The vehicle in which the contraband is found should be confiscated and auctioned off.

The people’s brave, open and free indulgence in playing with firecrackers and dangerous fireworks also goes to show that the police are unable to stop them. Firm action should also be taken against people caught playing with the firecrackers and fireworks. Hefty fines and jail sentences should be imposed on retailers and people caught playing with firecrackers.

Therefore, if a child or teenager is arrested for playing, possessing or owning firecrackers or fireworks, their parents should also be held responsible. Rationally, it is the duty of parents to watch over the everyday activities of their children.

The Malaysian government should liaise with the other governments especially China, Thailand and Indonesia in working out a joint surveillance and crackdown of imports and exports of firecrackers and fireworks.

CAP urges the Customs and Police to continue and step up the crackdown as the festive season draws near.

The writer is president of the Consumers’ Association of Penang