The current spate of open burnings in Miri has created not only a serious health hazard for Mirians but also reflects badly on efforts to turn Miri into a so-called resort city .

If the parties concerned are really serious about realising the resort city plan, they must first address this open burning problem without fear and favour.

If anything, solving this burning issue is rather simple: the authorities must use the relevant laws to prosecute the responsible persons involved both directly or indirectly in open burnings.

We do not need advanced technologies or expert opinions to confront this menace. I believe the relevant laws are sufficient to prevent such degradation of the environment. The only thing that we desperately need is effective and tough enforcement of the law.

It is sad that until recently, no constructive measures were taken to solve this problem. If this problem continues, I believe Miri's resort city status will not go far.

The Yang di-Pertuan Agong may want to give second thought to his royal consent for Miri to be a resort city. Critical thinking Mirians should not let the resort city plan succeed without first implementing concrete solutions for the open burning menace.