DIRECTED: ARTICLE: Factual (example)

You are concerned over the implications and long-term health effects of the haze.
Write an article to the local newspaper expressing your concern based on all the notes
below.

the reasons behind the haze
role of government and society
steps that can be taken
give relevant examples of:
- health complications
- measures
- roles of government and individuals

When writing the article you should remember:
- to lay out the letter carefully
- to use paragraphs
- that you letter is to the press

Haze: A Danger to Health

The haze is a constant phenomenon faced by Malaysia and her neighbouring
countries. The haze is basically pollution of atmosphere, which is clogged with
pollutants and other substances from forest fires.
The haze is a direct effect of forest fire in Kalimantan and other parts of
Indonesia due to slash and burn method of farming. The Indonesian authorities
appear to have no power to control farmers from practising such methods. The haze
is further worsened by open burning practised by most Malaysians. Open-field
burning of rice straw by the rice planters and open burning of dried leaves and
garbage done by the public are a few examples that done by Malaysian. Many are
ignorant of the health effects of open burning.
During the haze, hospitals and clinic often report a dramatic increase in
respiratory problems, lung infections and asthma attack. The Air Pollution Index
(API) usually indicates the hazardous and dangerous levels of pollution during this
period. The haze has long-term side effects. Prolonged inhalation of polluted air will
result in serious lung infection which particularly affects the elderly.
The government must play its role to reduce the haze treat. It has to cooperate
with the Indonesian authorities to stamp out forest fires. The culprits must be
brought to justice, either through healthy fine or prison sentence. Constant vigilance
would ensure the perpetrators do not repeat their offence.
The government should also raise the public awareness of the dangers of forest fire.
Continuous campaign of the cause, solutions and steps-need-to-be-taken to reduce
the haze need to be promoted through all types of social media like television, radio,
newspaper and even via internet. The authorities should also provide assistance to
farmers and introduce more sophisticated forest clearing methods.
In Malaysia, strict laws must be imposed to penalise those who practise open
burning. On-going campaigns on the dangers of open burning should be intensified.
Individuals too have a role to play. They must participate in every campaign and
stop burning. Students can advise their parents not to practice open burning.
Every individual has to remember that we do not own the world, but instead
we lent it from our future generations. We must protect our world so that our
grandchildren woulh have a healthy earth to live.

Ahmad Harun bin Hashim
Seremban, Negeri Sembilan

375 words