Got haze health worries? Ministry steps up monitoring, medical readiness

PUTRAJAYA, Aug 12 — Malaysia's Health Ministry (MOH) is intensifying monitoring of haze-related illnesses in hospitals after 10 locations reported unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings, with nine in Sarawak and one in Selangor. The ministry clarified these preparedness measures during a statement on Aug 12, emphasizing the augmentation of medical provisions, health service availability, and personnel readiness.

According to the Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) at 9 am yesterday, the nine Sarawak locations with unhealthy API readings included Serian, Samarahan, Kuching, Bintulu, Samalaju, Mukah, Sibu, Sarikei, and Sri Aman. The additional area was Johan Setia in Selangor.

The MOH advised the public, especially those residing in affected regions, to limit strenuous outdoor activities when the API surpasses 100 and to wear suitable face masks if they must venture outside. Educational institutions, government agencies, and private companies were urged to observe API readings and modify outdoor activities based on the air quality level.

Activities such as outdoor sports, co-curricular events, and strenuous physical exercises were discouraged or moved indoors in areas where the API exceeded 100. The public was further instructed to keep windows and doors closed to limit polluted air entry, to drink ample water, and to pay particular attention to children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic health conditions.

Moreover, the MOH cautioned against engaging in open burning, as this action could exacerbate air quality issues and heighten health risks associated with haze exposure.