SHAH ALAM, Feb 12 — Forest fires present a significant impact on the environment and wildlife, especially in sensitive areas like peat swamps, said Selangor Forestry Department director Azhar Ahmad.
He said burnt forests, especially peat swamps, take a long time — around 30 to 50 years — to recover, depending on the level of damage and cause of fire.
He added that fires cost many animals their habitats and lives, particularly small animals, reptiles and insects that find it hard to escape. This compromises the ecosystem and biodiversity in affected areas.
“Fires also present physiological pressure to trees due to extreme heat and air pollution, thus affecting forests’ natural functions,” he told Media Selangor.
Azhar said a comprehensive forest recovery plan is executed the moment fires are put out, aimed at rehabilitating ecosystemic functions, protecting biodiversity, and lowering fire recurrence risk.
He added that assessments are also performed to identify how much of the forest was affected, the level of damage, and the type of ecosystem involved, and evaluates soil, plant, wildlife and drainage conditions using satellite imaging and drones.
“Vegetation rehabilitation would be done by replanting local species that are compatible with the ecosystem,” he explained.
He emphasised that forest fires are mostly caused by human negligence, so all quarters must bear the responsibility of preserving the forests for future generations.
Azhar said that Section 82(1) of the National Forestry Act 1984 (Adoption) Enactment 1985 states that no person shall kindle, keep or carry any fire, or leave any fire burning, within a permanent forest reserve in such a manner as to endanger such a forest reserve.
Section 81(2) of the law further states that anyone who contravenes Subsection (1) would be liable to a fine not exceeding RM50,000, a prison term not exceeding five years, or both, upon conviction.
Thus, he advised the public to avoid starting open fires, control materials that could spark fires, practise responsible land management by cleaning without burning, and immediately reporting any sign of fire.
“The public is advised to always be cautious and play an active role in preventing forest fires, especially during prolonged hot and dry weather.
“Forest fires not only destroy natural biodiversity and ecosystems, but negatively affect public health, air quality, and local communities’ well-being,” Azhar said.
Several forest fires have broken out across Selangor recently, including a blaze that razed 22.6ha of the Kuala Langat South Forest Reserve.
