Johor fire department warns of heightened haze danger as dry spell fuels fire outbreaks
As the Southwest Monsoon peaks between July and September, Johor faces mounting risks of haze, fires, and health emergencies due to open burning and prolonged dry conditions, prompting urgent warnings from fire authorities.
Dry Spell Threatens Air Quality and Health
The Johor Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has raised alarm over increased open burning during the ongoing Southwest Monsoon, warning it could spark widespread haze affecting both local and regional air quality. Although this year’s monsoon is less intense due to El Niño’s neutral phase, persistent dry weather continues to elevate fire and health risks.
JBPM director Siti Rohani Nadir explained that the Malaysian Meteorological Department has advised the public to remain vigilant against dehydration and heatstroke. “Limit outdoor activity during midday, wear breathable clothing, and stay hydrated,” she urged.
108 Fire Cases in Just Over a Month
From May through early June, Johor recorded 108 open burning incidents, with 103 involving non-peatland areas. Bushfires accounted for more than half of these (54.36%), followed by garbage fires (29.11%), agricultural fires (9.98%), and timber waste fires (1.89%).
Despite being fewer in number, peatland fires remain especially hazardous. “Peat soil can trap heat and embers, making these fires harder to extinguish and longer-lasting,” Siti Rohani warned.
Open Burning Fuels Environmental and Health Hazards
Open burning during dry spells creates toxic smoke, pollutes the air, and significantly increases the risk of forest and bush fires. These fires threaten ecosystems, water supplies, and public health, especially in vulnerable communities and border regions.
Siti Rohani emphasized that uncontrolled fires often begin from careless garbage burning or agricultural clearing. She reiterated that all forms of open burning should be avoided during this season.
Urgent Appeal to the Public
To curb the rising threat, JBPM is calling on all residents to refrain from open burning and to report any fire sightings immediately. This includes suspicious activities near plantations, construction sites, or open fields.
“Public cooperation is vital to reduce the spread of haze and protect lives and property,” Siti Rohani stressed. Immediate response can help contain fires before they escalate into larger environmental disasters.
Regional Impact and Agricultural Concerns
The impact of uncontrolled fires in Johor may extend across borders, potentially affecting Singapore and parts of Indonesia. Additionally, disruptions to agriculture caused by fire and haze could hurt food production and rural livelihoods.
The authorities have also warned of potential water supply issues if dry conditions persist, compounding the challenges already posed by the seasonal monsoon.
The fire risks tied to open burning during Johor’s dry season are a pressing regional concern. With haze threatening air quality across Southeast Asia, this situation highlights the urgent need for stricter environmental enforcement, community awareness, and cross-border cooperation in preventing seasonal disasters.
Sources: Malay Mail (2025) , The Sun (2025)
Keywords: Johor Haze Warning, Southwest Monsoon 2025, Open Burning Ban, Forest Fire Risk, Health Alert Johor, Peatland Fire
