DOE: Over 500 hotspots in Kalimantan and Sumatra behind haze in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 30 — The Department of Environment (DOE) has reported over 500 hotspots in Kalimantan and Sumatra, contributing to the current haze affecting Malaysia, according to deputy director-general (Development) Azuri Azizah Saedon. The Asean Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) has noted 327 hotspots in Kalimantan and 191 in Sumatra. Additionally, one hotspot was detected in Sarawak. ASMC also indicated moderate transboundary haze impacting areas in Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore, and northwestern Borneo.

The DOE has intensified inspections, patrols, and monitoring within fire-prone regions, specifically peatlands and landfill sites, due to persistent hot and dry weather conditions. Azuri emphasized that upon identifying violations, appropriate actions will be taken based on inspections, investigations, and on-ground evidence. She affirmed that the DOE would persist in monitoring Air Pollutant Index (API) readings, hotspots, and transboundary haze developments, considering meteorological data to evaluate the situation and coordinate haze management measures at various levels.

As of 2 pm on September 30, 23 areas in Peninsular Malaysia reported unhealthy API readings, with the most severe levels observed in Selangor, Johor, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Kuala Lumpur, and Putrajaya. The DOE's actions are being implemented under the National Haze Action Plan (PTJK), delineating responsibilities for different agencies depending on the severity and progression of the haze situation.

The department will continuously provide updates on the status, monitoring and patrol findings, Open Burning Prevention Operations (OMPT), and enforcement actions in line with the established reporting mechanism.

The DOE stressed the necessity for collaboration from the industrial sector to minimize air emissions from primary sources, particularly in regions where API readings surpass 300.