Sabah sports urged to scale back outdoor activities as API worsens

KOTA KINABALU: Sports bodies, academies, clubs, coaches and organizers have been advised to modify outdoor training and events based on the existing air pollutant index (API) levels as air quality continues to deteriorate in Sabah. State Youth, Sports Development and Creative Economy Minister Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan emphasized the need to safeguard the well-being of athletes, players and participants, as several regions like Tawau, Semporna and Kota Kinabalu have reported unhealthy air quality.

In a statement released today, he advised that in case conditions are not conducive, high-intensity activities in open areas should be curtailed, postponed or transferred to appropriate indoor locations. According to the latest figures from the Sabah Environment Department, Kota Kinabalu had the highest API reading of 171, followed by Kimanis and Keningau, both at 156, while Tawau recorded 132.

Sandakan, on the other hand, had an API reading of 91, which falls within the moderate range. The minister attributed the worsening situation to the thick smoke from forest and peatland fires in Kalimantan, which has been carried by winds towards Borneo, including Sabah. Nizam also appealed to the public, especially children, youths, senior citizens and individuals with health and respiratory concerns, to decrease physical and outdoor activities when air quality reaches unhealthy levels.

He urged the public not to engage in open burning, as it could further exacerbate air quality. Any incidents of open burning or fires should be reported promptly to the authorities so that appropriate action can be taken.