KUCHING: Sarawakians, particularly those with existing health conditions, have been urged to take precautions as worsening haze continues to affect air quality across the state.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the elderly and people with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cancer and poorly controlled diabetes were among those most vulnerable to the effects of deteriorating air quality.
“Those with asthma should already be using their preventive puffers now, and should keep spare puffers on hand. Don’t wait until you fall sick,” he said when met by reporters at an event here today (Aug 30).
He advised the public to wear face masks, minimise outdoor activity and keep eye drops on hand to prevent irritation, warning that inhaling haze particles could worsen respiratory conditions rapidly.
Dr Sim, who is also Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, said government agencies had been directed since early August to prepare for the haze, including scaling back non-essential outdoor work unless deemed critical, such as emergency water pipe repairs.
He said hospitals and clinics had also been instructed to step up readiness, but urged residents not to wait for symptoms to worsen before seeking treatment.
“You must take responsibility. If your asthma gets worse, don’t stay home, go to the hospital,” he said.
Dr Sim also confirmed that Sarawak had raised the transboundary haze issue through the ASEAN haze network, linking the worsening conditions to wider climate change patterns affecting multiple countries.
