{
  "id": 982812,
  "title": "Seven hotspots detected in Malaysia as haze worsens in Sarawak",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/15/seven-hotspots-detected-in-malaysia-as-haze-worsens-in-sarawak",
  "topic": "science",
  "section": "Science",
  "published": "2026-08-15T07:26:27.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/regional/2026/08/1511698/seven-hotspots-detected-malaysia-haze-worsens-sarawak"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "KUALA LUMPUR: The Department of Environment (DOE) has reported the detection of seven hotspots in Malaysia, with five in Sarawak and two in Sabah, as air quality deteriorates across several regions. The Air Pollutant Index (API) readings in Sarawak have reached unhealthy levels, with Kuching recording the highest at 164. The deterioration is attributed to the movement of transboundary smoke plumes from various hotspots, including those in West Kalimantan and Kalimantan. The DOE has intensified enforcement actions and daily patrols in high-risk areas, activated National Open Burning and Haze Action Plans, and urged landowners to prevent open burning in sensitive areas. The public is advised to avoid open burning and report any incidents to the Fire and Rescue Department or the DOE's toll-free line.",
  "summary": "KUALA LUMPUR: A total of seven hotspots were detected in the country, with five in Sarawak and two in Sabah, as air quality deteriorated in several areas of Sarawak, which recorded unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings.",
  "key_points": [
    "Seven hotspots detected in Malaysia, five in Sarawak, two in Sabah.",
    "Kuching in Sarawak records highest API reading of 164, air quality unhealthy.",
    "DOE intensifies enforcement, activates action plans, urges public to avoid open burning."
  ],
  "editors_take": "The detection of hotspots and transboundary smoke plumes signals a tougher haze season for Malaysia, particularly in Sarawak, where residents face increasingly unhealthy air quality.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}