OVER recent days, at least 11 locations across Sarawak have recorded unhealthy air quality levels due to transboundary haze. Conditions became so severe in the Serian Division that the Air Pollutant Index (API) exceeded 200, forcing the temporarily closure of 108 schools.
On August 14, 2026, we were glad to learn that the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee announced plans for cloud seeding operations to disperse the haze, offering hope that clearer skies might soon return. We were very luckily and blessed that on the last afternoon of August 15, there was a heavy rain in Kuching areas that enabled the API to drop to 163 as at 5 pm. As at 11 am on Sunday August 16, 2026, the API has reduced to 132.
These developments have dominated daily conversations, from workplaces to weekend breakfasts, where discussions inevitably turn to the haze’s impact on schools, businesses, and community life – and the collective wish for relief.
According to the Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS), at 4 pm on August 13, 2026, Serian registered the highest reading at over 200, followed by Samarahan (177), Kuching (174), Sri Aman (162), Sarikei (157), Bintulu (157), Miri (152) and Sibu (151).
The Department of Environment Malaysia classifies API readings as follows: 0–50 (good), 51–100 (moderate), 101–200 (unhealthy), 201–300 (very unhealthy), and above 300 (hazardous).
Against this backdrop, let us examine the causes of haze, its impact on health, the economic and social repercussions and propose strategies to manage it more effectively so that its recurrence may be minimised in the years ahead.
Causes of the haze
Each year in July and August, Sarawak faces haze that is largely man‑made and intensified by seasonal weather patterns.
The Southwest Monsoon winds carry smoke from Kalimantan and Sumatra into Sarawak, compounding local emissions with transboundary pollution. Dry El Niño conditions reduce rainfall and heighten fire risks, making land burning more hazardous.
This period coincides with peak agricultural clearing when open burning is widely practised, leading to a surge in hotspots. The main causes are open burning of agricultural land, forest fires sparked by dry weather and human negligence, and transboundary pollution drifting into Sarawak.
Impact on health
The haze is not merely an environmental nuisance; it is a public health emergency. Prolonged exposure to polluted air can cause respiratory illnesses such as asthma and bronchitis, eye irritation, skin problems and cardiovascular risks.
My survey confirmed that clinics and hospitals in Kuching, Kota Samarahan and Serian have reported surges in patients with breathing difficulties, while pharmacies face increased demand for masks and inhalers. Medical experts caution that children are especially vulnerable, with long‑term complications possible due to developing lungs.
Economic and social consequences
The haze casts a heavy toll on our economy and social life. Outdoor industries such as construction, agriculture, and tourism suffer losses as workers are forced indoors and visitors stay away. The closure of 108 schools disrupts learning and family routines. Community events, sports and cultural activities are cancelled, weakening social cohesion.
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs), already grappling with economic uncertainties, face added strain as productivity falls, costs rise and consumer spending declines. Hazardous air discourages outdoor shopping and dining, further weakening local economies.
Managing annual haze
To safeguard public health and environmental quality, Sarawak must adopt a comprehensive approach to managing agricultural burning: –
- Ban on open burning: The Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) revokes controlled burning permits during haze season and prohibits developers and farmers from burning fields.
- Strict enforcement: Under Section 29A of the Environmental Quality Act 1974, offenders may face fines of up to RM1 million or imprisonment for up to five years. They are also liable to a further fine not exceeding RM5,000 for each day the offence continues after a notice has been issued.
- Alternative land management: Mechanised clearing, mulching, and composting are promoted as sustainable practices. The use of cover crops helps suppress weeds and minimise soil erosion.
- Peatland fire prevention: Maintaining water levels in peatlands reduces fire risk. Canals and bunds are constructed to retain moisture and safeguard vulnerable ecosystems.
Closing thoughts
The haze crisis in Kuching, Samarahan and Serian Divisions in Sarawak is more than a seasonal inconvenience – it is a recurring disaster that threatens health, disrupts education, undermines businesses, and erodes social life. The API readings on August 13, 2026, serve as a stark reminder of the urgency of the problem.
To break the cycle, we must enforce stricter laws against open burning, invest in monitoring and prevention and foster regional cooperation. Public awareness and community responsibility are equally vital. The causes of haze are preventable, its impacts severe and the solution lies in stronger enforcement, better prevention and collective action.
Though Sarawak can manage open burning professionally within its borders, we will continue to be affected by fires and haze originating from Kalimantan and Sumatra. Therefore, a joint operation between Indonesia and Malaysia is essential to effectively manage open burning and address the transboundary haze situation. Until such coordinated measures are taken seriously, we will remain vulnerable, paying the price in health, economy and social well‑being.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune. The writer can be reached at drjohnlau@gmail.com.
