KUCHING: Air quality in Sarawak is deteriorating, with Serian (162), Kuching (151) and Samarahan (149) recording unhealthy Air Pollution Index (API) readings as of 3:00 pm today, according to the Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS).
The latest APIMS readings come after the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) Sarawak earlier warned that hazy conditions are expected to persist until August 8 due to transboundary haze and the prevailing Southwest Monsoon.
Meanwhile, Sarikei (91) recorded the highest Moderate API reading, followed by Bintulu, Sibu and Sri Aman (88 each), Mukah (80), Samalaju (79), Miri (70), ILP Miri (63), Kapit (61) and Limbang (58).
According to the ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC), 18 hotspots were detected in Sarawak between August 1 and 6, although only six were recorded across the state over the past three days.
During the same three-day period, 905 hotspots were detected in Kalimantan, Indonesia.
NREB said the prevailing Southwest Monsoon, coupled with increased biomass burning outside Sarawak, could contribute to transboundary haze and a deterioration in the state’s ambient air quality.
The board advised the public to drink sufficient water, reduce outdoor activities, and wear face masks when outdoors, particularly those in high-risk groups.
NREB also reminded the public not to carry out open burning, warning that offenders may face a fine of up to RM100,000, imprisonment for up to five years, or both under the Natural Resources and Environment Ordinance (Cap. 84 – Laws of Sarawak, Ed. 1958).
