‘Worried’ and ‘confused’: Sarawakians grapple with worst haze since 2019
Among Malaysian states, Sarawak has been the worst hit by transboundary haze linked to forest fires in neighbouring Indonesia. CNA speaks to locals and businesses in the Borneo state to find out how they are coping.
Sarawakians grapple with the worst haze since 2019, feeling worried and confused as the transboundary smoke from Indonesian forest fires continues to deteriorate air quality. For pregnant Azie Nurazrin Aziz, who has asthma, the haze has made daily life "restricted" and she must carefully plan her errands to minimize outdoor exposure. The Kuching resident, who attends regular medical appointments, is anxious about the potential for an asthma attack.
The Malaysia Meteorological Department reported that Sarawak's haze episode is the worst since 2019, with the Air Pollutant Index (API) exceeding 500 for the first time, classifying it as "very hazardous." Schools in 12 districts, including Serian and Kuching, will close for five days starting September 7 due to the haze. Businesses have reported declining sales as residents spend less time outdoors, while clinics have seen a surge in respiratory patients.
Some residents expressed confusion about the emergency rules, while others, like Juliana Nurus Tahir, are concerned about commuting to work and protecting their children from the hazardous air.
Written by urgent.news from Channel News Asia's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
