Haze worsens in Sarawak as unhealthy API readings rise
KUALA LUMPUR: Air quality nationwide has worsened, with more areas in Sarawak recording unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings as haze from various directions moves into the state.
Malaysia's air quality has deteriorated nationwide, with Sarawak recording the most unhealthy levels of Air Pollutant Index (API) readings. The Environment Department has intensified enforcement and monitoring to combat the haze stemming from various directions. In Sarawak, one area experienced very unhealthy air quality, while nine areas faced unhealthy levels. Across the nation, 56 areas reported moderate readings, and two areas had good air quality.
Serian district police headquarters in Sarawak recorded the highest API reading of 227, followed by Sri Aman at 187, Kuching at 176, Samarahan at 175, and Sarikei at 174. Other areas with unhealthy readings included Sibu at 157, Bintulu at 154, Samalaju at 154, Kapit at 130, and Mukah at 130.
According to the Asean Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC), 288 hotspots were detected in Kalimantan and 53 in Sumatra on August 20, compared to just two hotspots in Malaysia—one each in Sarawak and Terengganu. The ASMC's regional haze map showed moderate to dense transboundary smoke originating from West Kalimantan and moving northwards into western Sarawak.
The Environment Department has activated the National Open Burning Action Plan and the National Haze Action Plan to coordinate the government's response to the worsening air quality. Under the haze action plan, outdoor classroom activities must cease when the API reading surpasses 100, while schools, kindergartens, and childcare centres must close if readings exceed 200.
Disaster management committees will be activated if API readings persist above 150 for over 24 hours. Cloud seeding may also be employed when API readings exceed 150, contingent on favorable weather conditions.
Landowners are advised to monitor fire-prone areas and prevent open burning, with penalties ranging from RM25,000 to RM1 million, up to five years in jail, or both, for offenses. Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup has warned that Malaysia is preparing for a stronger El Nino, which could exacerbate haze conditions.
At transboundary haze meetings in Bali on July 8 and 9, Malaysia joined Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, and Timor-Leste in reviewing measures to prevent forest and land fires.
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