The children’s commissioners express deep concern over the recent increase in firecracker-related incidents involving children in Malaysia, including a recent case in Kedah where a four-year-old boy lost several fingers and sustained serious injuries to his hand following a firecracker explosion.
Statistics reported in 2025 indicate that more than 200 injuries related to firecrackers occur annually in Malaysia, including cases involving loss of fingers and other grievous injuries. While not all of these cases involve children, the risks to children remain significant.
Although the Explosives Act 1957 provides for severe penalties, including imprisonment of up to seven years, a fine of RM10,000 or both, against those who unlawfully use explosives in a manner that endangers life or property, visibly weak enforcement has rendered the law largely ineffective.
At the same time, there is a need to review and strengthen the existing legal framework, including amendments to the Explosives Act, to tighten controls and impose heavier penalties on those who smuggle, distribute or sell illegal firecrackers.
In the best interests of children, the children’s commissioners call on the police and other relevant authorities to take immediate and decisive action to curb the sale and use of illegal and unapproved firecrackers.
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The responsibility to ensure the safety of children with regard to the usage of firecrackers does not rest exclusively on the shoulders of the authorities.
Parents are urged to educate their children that momentary excitement from playing with illegal firecrackers is not worth the lifelong consequences of serious injury or death. Religious leaders, including imams, are also encouraged to reinforce this message through sermons and community engagement.
Beyond safety concerns, excessive use of firecrackers constitutes wastefulness – a practice prohibited across religions and moral traditions and one that should be avoided at all times.
Festive seasons such as Aidilfitri and many more are meant to foster harmony, reflection and togetherness.
The uncontrolled use of firecrackers not only endangers lives but also disrupts rest for older people and young children, and causes significant disturbance during religious observances, including Tarawih prayers.
Therefore, the children’s commissioners unreservedly call on all parties to work hand-in-hand to ensure that the safety and wellbeing of children are not threatened by the proliferation of illegal and dangerous fireworks. – Suhakam
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