KUCHING: Senator Datuk Ahmad Ibrahim has urged the public to remain vigilant and prioritise their health as haze conditions continue to affect parts of Sarawak.
He said recent rain may have improved conditions temporarily but should not be taken as a sign that the haze situation had fully recovered.
He advised the public to drink sufficient water, reduce unnecessary outdoor activities when air quality is poor and seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, persistent coughing, dizziness or feeling unwell.
Ahmad also called on smokers and vape users to consider stopping during the haze period, saying polluted air already places additional strain on the lungs.
“Our health cannot be replaced. If you are unwell, do not wait too long. Go to a clinic or see a doctor,” he said at the Closed Badminton Tournament for the Village Chief’s Cup at the Kampung Sinar Budi Baru Multipurpose Hall in Batu Kawa today (Sept 5).
He also reminded participants in the badminton tournament to prioritise their safety, particularly those aged 40 and above, those who had not been physically active for a long time and those returning to sports.
Noting that badminton involves sudden movements such as jumping, abrupt stops and rapid changes in direction, Ahmad urged participants to warm up properly and avoid overexertion.
“If you are tired, rest, and if you are in pain, do not push yourself,” he said.
In a light-hearted remark, he said participants had come to compete for the Village Chief’s Cup, not to return home with ice packs on their knees.
Ahmad also said community sports programmes served not only as a platform to promote healthy living and uncover sporting talent but also helped strengthen relationships among residents.
He added that facilities such as community halls and sports courts provide young people with opportunities to step away from mobile phones and social media, interact face to face and build self-confidence.
“Community development and human relationships are equally important. When residents know one another, help one another and actively participate together, we will have a stronger and more harmonious community,” he said.
Also present were Padawan Municipal Council Chairman Cr Tan Kai representing Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Kampung Sinar Budi Baru village chief KK Wain Sulaiman, members of the Village Development and Security Committee, participants and local residents.
Ahmad expressed hope that the Kampung Sinar Budi Baru community would continue organising more sports, youth, family and community activities in the future.
