Rasidah HAB
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
BEING a popular local pastime and recreational activity, kite flying , is enjoyed by people of all ages.However, the story of an eight-year-old boy whose neck was cut by a kite string last Thursday has created a public outcry seeking such activities prohibited from being carried out in restricted areas including the residential areas.
The 25-year-old said: “Instead of completely restricting or removing such traditions, maybe it’s a better idea to limit them to a set of rules and regulations.”
For example, she said, powdered strings can only be used at certain kite flying events and within specified areas, with health and safety authorities present to monitor the activity, similar to shooting practice activities or events.
“Kite players at these events should be well informed about the rules and the general public should also be educated that these practices are forbidden without the appropriate supervision and authorities.”
The Royal Brunei Police Force in an earlier statement has advised the public to practise safety while flying kites as well as to ensure that they play it on a clear and open field, prohibiting them from playing in areas that are patronised by helicopters.
Yanyan Ali, a teacher, could not contain her horror when she saw the image of the boy with the cut marks on the front page of a local newspaper.
“There must be a place suitable for kite flying like the beach or somewhere designated for it or powdered glass strings only use if there is a kite flying competition.
“Kite playing is our traditional game, to abolish it would be impossible. Adults and parents should always make sure that children who are playing kites are monitored and supervised at all times,” she admonished.
Latif Duraman, a primary school teacher, said: “For children, it is the parents who have to teach them to play kites at proper places.”
“This is important as accidents are usually caused by carelessness and ignorance.”
Latif felt strongly that kites with glass powdered strings must be prohibited. He quoted a similar case three years ago, where a man was seriously injured when he accidentally rode past the strings while riding his motorcycle.
The Department of Civil Aviation last Friday had issued a warning that a maximum of $3,000 fine will be slapped on kite flyers who are caught playing near the restricted areas.
The department also urges the public not to fly kites in the vicinity of the local air fields which can be hazardous as these kites may cause damage to the aircrafts, including helicopters.
Latest by The Brunei Times:
- BDFone to unveil 3 phone models
- Winner plans to market software to local artistes
- 18 youths detained in ‘Operasi Lepak'
- India's Independence Day flag hoisting on August 15
- TAP counters operating hours in Ramadhan
