Sarawak haze worsens as two areas hit ‘Very Unhealthy’ air quality

Sarawak's air quality deteriorated further on Wednesday, with Tebedu and Serian recording Air Pollutant Index (API) readings above 200. The Sarawak State Disaster Management Committee (JPBNS) reported Tebedu hit 212 and Serian 202, both of which were classified as 'Very Unhealthy'.

Eleven other areas were in the 'Unhealthy' category, while five others were 'Moderate'. No area reached the 'Good' or 'Hazardous' levels. Since August 1, Sarawak's air quality had been steadily increasing, with 75 hotspots detected in the state, compared to 3,853 in Kalimantan, Indonesia.

The South-west Monsoon, with consistent south-west winds, is contributing to transboundary haze and further air quality deterioration. If biomass burning outside Sarawak increases, the situation could persist over the coming days.

Following the high API readings, 108 schools in the Serian Division were temporarily closed, with home-based learning continuing. The public was advised to avoid open burning and outdoor activities, especially those at high risk, when air quality was 'Unhealthy' or worse.

Firefighting operations against two major forest fires in Sri Aman and Mukah, which had been ongoing for three days, continued. In Sri Aman, the fire affected about 80 hectares, with 60 hectares still burning. Firefighters used a total-flooding method, particularly in peatland areas, but faced challenges like GIRN coverage issues and strong winds.

A separate fire in Mukah affected 8.34 hectares, with four hectares extinguished and the remaining spread towards Kampung Sungai Kut. Six firefighters were involved in the operation. Both firefighting efforts remain ongoing as authorities work to contain the fires and prevent further spread.