Deputy Home Minister Azis Jamman said in 2014, 12 more types of fireworks under the “Happy Boom” brand were allowed.

“Since then, until today, as many as 44 types of Happy Boom fireworks have been tested and evaluated and are allowed to be sold for festivities,” Azis told FMT.

“Happy Boom” is one of two types of firecrackers allowed for sale in Malaysia, the other being the “Pop Pop” firecrackers.

The use of festive firecrackers is regulated by the Explosives Act 1957.

Earlier, DAP’s Bercham assemblyman Ong Boon Piow urged the government to lift a ban on the import of firecrackers and fireworks to discourage smuggling.

Saying fireworks add colour to the festive atmosphere, their use could be better regulated if they’re legalised.

He said legalising the sale of fireworks would contribute to the government’s revenue and reduce opportunities for corruption by enforcement agencies.