KUCHING: Organisers have been urged to reconsider outdoor events as hazardous air quality was recorded in several parts of Sarawak.
Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) Chairman, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, said this was particularly necessary for activities involving children, senior citizens and other vulnerable groups when the Air Pollutant Index (API) exceeds 200.
“Organisers are encouraged to exercise responsibility and sound judgement, including considering postponement, relocation, modification or cancellation of activities where appropriate,” he said in a statement today.
However, Uggah said the decision to proceed with, postpone or cancel an event remained at the organisers’ discretion unless the authorities issued a specific directive.
As of noon, Serian recorded the highest API reading at 399, followed by Samarahan at 332, Kuching at 304 and Tebedu at 302, all within the hazardous range.
Very unhealthy readings were recorded in Lubok Antu at 243, Lundu at 236 and Sri Aman at 228, while most other areas across the state registered unhealthy air quality.
Uggah said outdoor workers in areas with API readings between 301 and 400 should wear N95 respirators, while motorists should switch on their headlights where visibility was affected.
Outdoor work should be avoided once the API exceeds 400.
Should the API exceed 500, government and private sector offices and workplaces, except essential services, may be closed pending the declaration of a disaster emergency by the National Committee on Disaster Management.
He said SDMC was coordinating with state and federal agencies and would progressively implement measures based on prevailing conditions.
The public was advised to stay indoors where possible, keep windows and doors closed, reduce strenuous outdoor activities, and use N95 respirators when exposure could not be avoided.
Those experiencing breathing difficulties, persistent coughing, chest tightness, severe eye irritation, dizziness, confusion or unusual fatigue should seek medical attention promptly.
Uggah also reminded the public to refrain from open burning and rely on official API readings and announcements from the relevant authorities.
