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The recent announcement by Local Government And Development Minister Nga Kor Ming that the federal government planned to legalise fireworks has sparked debate among Malaysians.

While some think that it is a good move, others think it should not be legalised at all.

Although in our country, firecrackers appear to be a must during festive seasons such as Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Deepavali and Christmas, there is no denying that it is still dangerous and sometimes can cause life altering injuries.

For example, the incident where an 18-year-old lion dancer lost one eye due to a firework mishap.

READ MORE: 18-Year-Old Lost His Eye To Fireworks During Lion Dance Performance

Fireworks are illegal in Malaysia under several Acts. The only type that were legal for public use were the Happy Boom and Pop-Pop as they do not contain any dangerous chemical substance.

According to the Explosive Act 1957, fireworks are considered to be explosive items together with gunpowder, dynamite and detonators.

In the Act, it is also stated under Section 5 that any person found possessing, manufacturing and importing fireworks can be sentenced to 5 years’ imprisonment, or a fine of RM10,000, or both, upon conviction.

Another offence according to the Act under Section 6, states that if any person were found to endanger any lives or property can be jailed for 7 years or fined RM10,000, or both, upon conviction.

According to the Minor Offences Act 1995, any individual who is found letting off banned fireworks can be jailed one month or fined up to RM100, or both, upon conviction.

Nga assured that by legalising fireworks, the country’s revenue can be increased and it can also be a step towards stopping the smuggling activities of illegal firecrackers, as reported by The Star.

He has also assured that, if the firecrackers are legalised than the products that are shipped into the country has to follow the requirements and standards set by our government.

However, the real question is that will this move by the government bring any benefit to Malaysians?

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