Jerebu: 108 sekolah di Serian catat IPU lebih 200 ditutup

At 4 pm yesterday, two regions reported PM2.5 air quality readings in the 'very unhealthy' category, with 212 in Tebedu and 202 in Serian, Sarawak. KUCHING: A total of 108 schools were temporarily closed in the Serian area following the PM2.5 index exceeding 200 as a precautionary measure to safeguard the safety, health, and well-being of students and school staff.

The Sarawak State Disaster Management Unit clarified that despite the temporary closures, home-based learning (SBP) will continue during the relevant period to ensure the uninterrupted education of students. "According to the National Jerebu Action Plan, under the authority of the Sarawak Education Department, schools, kindergartens, and youth centers will be closed immediately as soon as PM2.5 readings reach 200," stated the JPBN Sarawak in today's statement.

PM2.5 readings ranging from 0 to 50 indicate good air quality, between 51 and 100 are moderate, 101 to 200 are unhealthy, 201 to 300 are very unhealthy, and readings above 300 are hazardous. JPBN Sarawak reported that air quality in Sarawak has shown an upward trend in PM2.5 readings since August 1. "As of 4 pm today, two regions recorded readings in the 'very unhealthy' category, 212 in Tebedu and 202 in Serian, while 11 regions are in the 'unhealthy' category, namely Kuching, Samarahan, Sri Aman, Sarikei, Sibu, Bintulu, Samalaju, Miri, Lundu, Lubok Antu, and Lawas," the statement added.

JPBN Sarawak also advised the general public to reduce outdoor activities, especially when air quality readings are unhealthy or higher. "High-risk groups, including children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with respiratory or heart problems, should limit their exposure to polluted air. JPBN Sarawak urges the public not to speculate or spread inaccurate information related to the pollution situation and to obtain the latest information only through official government channels," they concluded.