Fireworks stall blaze in Cheras, netizens call for more regulations

MALAYSIA: A massive fire broke out at a fireworks stall in Dataran Perniagaan Cheras in the evening of Feb 11, destroying the stall and spreading to nearby parked vehicles. The incident at Jalan Dataran Cheras 6 resulted in five vehicles being engulfed in flames.

The Selangor Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) was alerted to the fire at 9:53 pm and swiftly dispatched a team to the scene. JBPM Assistant Director of Operations Ahmad Mukhlis Mukhtar, confirmed the response in a statement quoted by Bernama:

“The fireworks stall was completely engulfed in flames, which spread and caused five vehicles, including a Toyota Vellfire, Perodua Bezza and Proton Saga, and two motorcycles, to catch fire.”

Firefighters from the Bandar Tun Hussein Onn Fire and Rescue Station battled the blaze with 13 personnel and three fire engines. While the flames were eventually brought under control, the damage had already been done.

Despite the intensity of the fire, no injuries or fatalities were reported. The authorities have reassured the public that an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire.

Ahmad Mukhlis Mukhtar confirmed this in an article published by Bernama, “There were no casualties reported, and the cause of the fire is still under investigation.” The incident has, however, raised concerns about the safety of fireworks storage and sales, particularly in commercial and residential areas.

Public reaction and safety concerns

The fire has sparked public concern, with many residents questioning the safety protocols surrounding fireworks stalls. Several individuals whose comments have been translated expressed frustration over what they perceive as negligence.

A resident commented: “Many times, passing through the fireworks stall, I see the fireworks sales staff sitting inside and smoking.” This has led to speculation that improper handling of fireworks may have played a role in the fire.

Another individual questioned whether the stall took necessary precautions, asking: “Why didn’t you cover it with cloth?” This remark suggests that better protective measures might have reduced the risk of such a disaster.

Some public members have gone further, calling for an outright ban on fireworks sales. One person stated, “should be banned,” while another declared, “From now on, no fireworks.”

Ongoing investigation and regulatory concerns

Authorities are now working to determine the cause of the fire, but the incident has already reignited discussions on regulating fireworks stalls in Malaysia. While fireworks are a popular feature of festive celebrations, incidents like this highlight the potential dangers when they are not stored or handled correctly.

The fire has also raised questions about enforcement and safety standards. If the investigation confirms that negligence was involved, increased calls for stricter regulations or a review of fireworks sales practices may occur.

The community is grappling with the aftermath of the fire as authorities work to determine what went wrong and whether similar incidents can be prevented in the future.

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