Despite being outlawed, the thunderous boom and dazzling lights of fireworks are still heard and seen during every festive season.

With Chinese New Year falling on Tuesday, Ong Boon Piow has suggested a lifting of the ban on the import of firecrackers and fireworks to put an end to illegal smuggling. 

In a statement today, the Bercham assemblyperson said the move could improve the festive atmosphere of the celebration, provided its use is regulated by the government. 

“Other than improving the Chinese New Year vibe, it (the lifting of the ban) can increase the income of the Treasury and merchants.

“The ban was put in place due to an incident more than 20 years ago. Most of the fireworks used by the public have been smuggled products.

“This has caused the nation to lose revenue from taxation. Apart from that, it enabled certain enforcement officers to abuse their power and become corrupt,” he said.

Ong, the Perak DAP assistant secretary, further suggested that authorities list down the places and times whereby fireworks and firecrackers can be lit, and punish those who disobey the regulations.

Only two types of fireworks and firecrackers are exempted from the 1994 federal ban, 'pop-pop' and 'happy boom' fireworks.

Despite being illegal, however, fireworks and firecrackers are widely available in roadside markets around the country.