By Aida Aziz
IPOH: The state government is firm in its efforts to combat dengue, including addressing the issue of vacant lots that are at risk of becoming breeding grounds.
State Executive Councillor for Health, Human Resources, National Integration, and Indian Community Affairs, A. Sivanesan, said that Section 8 of the Destruction of Disease-Bearing Insects Act (APSPP) 1975 (Act 154) will be enforced.
He stated that this is an enforcement measure for poorly maintained vacant lots that have become breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes.
“The issue of vacant lots becoming breeding grounds for Aedes due to poor maintenance by the owners is frequently discussed in dengue outbreak management meetings.
“With the use of this Act, the responsibility for cleaning the lot is placed on the owner.
“The cleaning must be done within five to seven days after the notice is served to the owner.
“Failure to do so within the specified period will result in the owner being prosecuted in court,” he said.
He added that legal action would be taken against owners who fail to comply with the work order as outlined in the Section 8 Notice issued.
If convicted, the maximum fine is RM10,000 or two years in prison, or both, for a first offense.
For repeat offenders, the maximum fine is RM50,000 or five years in prison, or both.
Meanwhile, he noted that there are four districts showing an increase in cases.
“Hulu Perak has shown the most significant increase at 221.4 percent, followed by Muallim at 37.9 percent, Kampar at 26.9 percent, and Larut, Matang, and Selama at 25.6 percent.
“Kinta still reports nearly half of the total dengue cases in Perak,” he added.
