AS TAOIST devotees prepare to usher in the upcoming Qing Ming Festival on April 4, cemetery authorities across Penang are stepping up traffic management and safety measures, while urging visitors to observe guidelines to ensure a smooth and orderly experience.
United Hokkien Cemeteries trustee Datuk Ong Teik Kim advised the public to carpool or use ride-hailing services, such as Grab, when visiting graves, in a bid to reduce the number of vehicles and ease congestion during peak periods.
Authorities also raised concerns over fire risks, particularly in light of past incidents at the United Hokkien Cemeteries, where open burning led to enforcement action.
With the current hot and dry weather conditions and temperatures frequently exceeding 30°C, dry grass areas remain highly susceptible to fire.
Visitors are reminded that the burning of offerings should only be carried out at designated incinerators or in safe areas away from grass, to minimise the risk of accidental fires that could damage the cemetery environment and result in penalties.
Separately, the Bukit Mertajam Hock Teik Cheng Sin Temple, on a social media posting, stated that it will implement traffic control measures throughout the Qing Ming period to ensure smooth traffic flow at its cemetery grounds.
All vehicles entering the cemetery will be charged a RM3 parking fee, payable in cash or via Touch ‘n Go (TNG). Four designated parking areas, including those near the main entrance and in front of the bereavement hall, will be made available.
Visitors are required to follow instructions from on-site personnel and avoid roadside parking to prevent congestion.
For safety reasons, no worship or burning of offerings will be allowed inside the columbarium buildings, and all prayers must be conducted at designated outdoor areas.
Several peak dates, namely March 28 and 29, as well as April 5, 11 and 12, are expected to see heavy traffic, and the public is encouraged to plan visits on alternative days where possible.
During the Qing Ming period, voluntary patrol units and traffic police will be deployed at key entry and exit points to maintain order and ensure public safety.
On environmental hygiene, visitors are urged to dispose of waste responsibly by placing all food, drinks and containers in tied plastic bags before discarding them at designated bins or collection points.
To prevent mosquito breeding, any containers filled with water should be removed or disposed of appropriately after prayers.
The use of lotus candles is encouraged, while families are reminded to maintain the grass at their ancestral graves regularly to prevent overgrowth.
The United Hokkien Cemeteries will conduct a public awareness campaign from March 26 to April 14 to reinforce these guidelines.
