KUCHING: Four areas in Sarawak recorded hazardous Air Pollutant Index (API) readings as of noon today, with air quality across the state continuing to worsen amid transboundary haze.
The Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) said in a statement that Kuching (304), Samarahan (332), IPD Serian (412) and Tebedu (302) were in the hazardous category, while Sri Aman (228), Lundu (236) and Lubok Antu (243) were very unhealthy.
Ten other areas – Sarikei, Sibu, Mukah, Kapit, Bintulu, Samalaju, Miri, ILP Miri, Lawas and Bario – were unhealthy, while Limbang was the only area in the moderate category. No area recorded a good reading.
NREB said the API has trended upward since August 1, based on the US Environmental Protection Agency’s Pollutant Standard Index, which averages 24-hour readings of five pollutants.
According to the statement, the ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) detected 185 hotspots in Sarawak between August 1 and 29, against 12,888 in Kalimantan, Indonesia, with moderate to thick haze moving north from West Kalimantan into western Sarawak.
ASMC activated Alert Level 3 for the southern ASEAN region on August 26, warning that an intensifying El Niño could worsen hotspot and haze conditions in the coming months.
With the Southwest Monsoon – which began on May 14 and is expected to end in September – bringing consistent southwesterly winds, NREB said Sarawak could continue experiencing haze in the coming days.
The public was advised to drink sufficient water, limit strenuous outdoor activities, and wear face masks, especially high-risk groups. Official readings are available on the NREB and DOE’s Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) websites.
NREB also warned against open burning, an offence under Sections 30(1)(a) and 30(2) of the Natural Resources and Environment Ordinance (Cap 84), punishable by a fine of up to RM100,000, five years’ jail, or both.
Cases can be reported to the nearest NREB office or its hotline at 082-447488 or 082-319500, with confidentiality guaranteed under Section 38 of the ordinance.
