KUCHING: Hazy conditions have made motorcycle riding more uncomfortable for some, particularly because of reduced visibility and irritation to the eyes, throat and skin.
Motorcyclist Aliah Izzati Ahmad, 26, said the haze affected her vision while riding, making it difficult to estimate the distance between her motorcycle and other vehicles.
She said she had not changed her usual route or travelling time as she was already in a haze hotspot, adding that thick haze remained around her regardless of where she travelled.
“At first, there was no protection. However, as the haze got worse, I had to use a face mask as my face is directly exposed to the haze while riding,” she said.
Aliah said the haze also caused an itchy throat and skin, making riding uncomfortable.
She added that thick haze required riders to remain more alert as it could make it difficult to see vehicles entering roads or residential areas.
Meanwhile, Mohamad Haikal Mohamad Hasnol, 26, said the haze caused eye irritation and made breathing uncomfortable, particularly when riding for long periods.
“If the conditions are too bad, I try to avoid travelling at certain times and choose less congested routes so that I do not have to spend too long on the road,” he said.
Haikal said he wore a face mask and kept his helmet visor closed to reduce exposure to the haze.
He added that visibility became less clear when the haze was thick, prompting him to slow down and exercise greater caution while riding.
Another motorcyclist, Muhammad Khammal Alhadi Alli, 25, said the haze made riding less comfortable, especially during longer journeys.
“My eyes can feel irritated, and I feel uncomfortable breathing in the hazy air,” he said.
He said he tried to travel earlier when possible, avoid busy roads and minimise the time spent outdoors when the haze was bad.
Khammal said he also wore a mask, kept his helmet visor closed and ensured he was properly covered while riding.
He added that poor visibility required him to pay closer attention to the road and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
“Thankfully, I have not experienced any serious incidents so far. However, I do ride more slowly and stay extra alert when visibility is poor because I do not want to risk an accident,” he said.
