Widespread fireworks use sparks environmental and safety concerns in Malaysia (from ALIRAN)

What fireworks are:

An evil and fatal danger to pets, street dogs and cats, birds and other animals – yes.

A danger to human babies, the elderly and other humans – yes.

An environmental danger, ie. air pollution and noise pollution – yes.

A totally unnecessary and wasteful ritual – yes.

Please teach your children the dangers of fireworks and firecrackers. Do not support fireworks display.

Please read this: https://aliran.com/thinking-allowed-online/widespread-fireworks-use-sparks-environmental-and-safety-concerns-in-malaysia

Especially this part:

Shortly after taking office, Housing and Local Government Nga Kor Ming proposed loosening restrictions on fireworks during the 2023 Chinese New Year, and his proposal was accepted by the cabinet. Nga argued that the new policy could “increase tax revenue”, “eliminate the black market”, “enhance the festive atmosphere”, and “improve product safety”.

And now, please read this: https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/02/12/five-vehicles-destroyed-after-fireworks-stall-catches-fire-in-cheras

Excerpts:

KUALA LUMPUR: Five vehicles were destroyed after a fireworks stall went up in flames at Jalan Dataran Cheras 6, Dataran Perniagaan Cheras, near here on Tuesday (Feb 11) night.

Selangor Fire and Rescue Department assistant director of operations, Ahmad Mukhlis Mukhtar, said in a statement that the department received a call about the incident at 9.53pm.

He said 13 firemen and three fire engines from the Bandar Tun Hussein Onn Fire and Rescue Station were dispatched to the scene.

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

The news when it was legalised in Jan/Feb 2023: https://www.malaymail.com/…/nga-kor-ming-federal…/53248

The final paragraph of the article from ALIRAN says it best:

A new interpretation of tradition

According to Chinese tradition, the setting off of firecrackers aims to scare away a mythical beast, Nian. This ritual symbolises leaving behind the misfortunes of the past year and embracing new beginnings.

However, if firecrackers and fireworks harm the environment and public health, then it is better to abandon this outdated practice, which causes more harm than good to the community and the environment.

True adherence to the essence of “removing the bad old things and welcoming the new” means embracing progress. Surely, protecting the community and the environment is more in line with the spirit of renewal and progressiveness.

That’s what I said to my neighbourhood last year and I incurred the wrath of one woman who called me “RUDE” in capital letters! And no one else dared to speak up.  

Humans, the most selfish species in the animal kingdom. So selfish that they should be excluded from the animal kingdom simply because it would be an insult to all animals (to include them) AND they don’t know how to live in harmony with Nature.