Sarawak haze crisis deepens as Serian air pollution hits very unhealthy level

Sarawak's haze crisis has worsened, with the Air Pollutant Index (API) in Serian reaching an unhealthy level of 242. This places the area in the "very unhealthy" category. Data from the Malaysian Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) shows that eight other areas in the state are also experiencing unhealthy air quality. The affected areas include Sri Aman (API 189), Kuching (188), Samarahan (180), Sarikei (172), Sibu (156), Bintulu (153), Kapit (107), and Samalaju (36).

The deterioration in air quality in Serian, situated near the Malaysia-Indonesia border, is a significant concern. As a result, 591 schools across 10 district education offices have been closed today. These closures affect 509 primary schools, accommodating 107,590 pupils, and 82 secondary schools with 89,733 students. The Sarawak Education Department announced the closures, expressing growing concern over the impact on students.

The Sarawak State Disaster Management Committee (JPBNS) is continuously monitoring weather conditions, air quality, hotspot locations, fire risks, and water supply status, working in coordination with relevant agencies. This intensified monitoring is crucial due to the growing environmental and public health risks posed by the worsening transboundary haze, particularly in areas near the Indonesian border.