Urgent.News

What's breaking now, across thousands of outlets.

World

SNAPSHOT | No more MACC orange jumpsuit for those on remand; emergency declared in Serian over haze

What's going on in the news today, with updates at 9am, 2pm, 6pm, and 9pm.

A haze emergency, the most severe alert under Malaysia's Air Pollutant Index (API) system, was declared in Serian. This classification occurs when API readings surpass 500, posing significant health risks to high-risk individuals and the general populace. The Department of Environment (DoE) advises adhering to official instructions and monitoring updates during this emergency.

The declaration in Serian is a localized measure to safeguard the public from dangerously high air pollution levels, not a nationwide emergency or security lockdown. API readings between 301 and 500 indicate hazardous conditions, while those above 500 are categorized as emergencies. Serian was the only locality in Sarawak to experience this emergency, with no broader impact on the state or Malaysia.

Non-essential workplaces may close, outdoor activities suspended, and health monitoring intensified. Essential services like healthcare and utilities remain operational. Residents are advised to stay indoors, use proper masks, and take extra precautions if they fall into high-risk groups. The emergency's duration depends on the API levels and government decisions.

Malaysia has declared haze emergencies before, including in Sarawak (1997), Kuala Selangor and Port Klang (2005), and Johor (2013).

Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

This story

This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.

Read the original at malaysiakini.com →

More in World

More from Friday 4 September →