Sarawak closes 108 schools in Serian division as API readings exceed 200

KUCHING — 108 schools in Sarawak's Serian Division have temporarily closed due to Air Pollutant Index (API) readings surpassing 200, placing them in the 'very unhealthy' range. Deputy Premier and SDMC chairman Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas announced the closure as a preventive measure to protect the health of students and school staff.

Teaching and Learning from Home (PdPR) will continue during the closure period. As of 4pm today, Serian had an API reading of 202, and Tebedu recorded 212. Other areas, such as Kuching, Samarahan, Sibu, and Bintulu, reported unhealthy API readings ranging from 101 to 200. Mukah, Kapit, ILP Miri, Limbang, and Bario remain in the moderate category, while no area recorded good or hazardous air quality.

Uggah noted an increase in API readings since August 1 and linked the trend to hotspots detected in Sarawak and neighboring Indonesia. The prevailing South-west Monsoon may contribute to transboundary haze and deteriorate air quality. SDMC and relevant agencies will monitor air quality, weather conditions, and fire incidents. The public, especially children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with respiratory or heart conditions, are advised to limit outdoor activities when air quality reaches unhealthy levels.

The Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) warns against open burning, with offenders facing fines up to RM100,000 or imprisonment of up to five years, and advises reporting open-burning cases to relevant authorities.