Sabah activates state and district disaster command centres as API readings rise to unhealthy levels

KOTA KINABALU, Sept 2 — Sabah has activated its State Disaster Operations Command Centre, as well as district-level command centres in Kota Kinabalu, Keningau, and Papar, following a spike in the Air Pollutant Index (API) readings. State Secretary Datuk Zainudin Aman, who chairs the State Disaster Management Committee, informed that API levels in Kota Kinabalu (177), Tawau (153), Keningau (165), Kimanis, Papar (166), and Kota Kinabalu Polytechnic (153) were reaching unhealthy levels.

The Chief Minister, Hajiji Noor, was informed that the rise in API readings was due to wind patterns moving towards Sabah, with levels expected to continue increasing without rain in Kalimantan. Under the National Haze Action Plan, the API readings were categorized as Alert Level 1A, which includes measures like suspending outdoor activities, postponing co-curricular and sports events, informing the public about API readings and precautions, and boosting enforcement and monitoring of industries and landfill sites.

Zainudin stated that a haze emergency would be declared if API readings reached 500 and above, recommending the cancellation or postponement of official government activities if the API reading reaches or exceeds 200, while permitting indoor activities. Schools in areas with API readings of 200 or more were suggested to close and transition to remote learning.

Zainudin also recommended solat hajat in every district for Muslims to seek protection and well-being, while other places of worship were encouraged to hold relevant religious activities based on their beliefs and practices.