KUALA LUMPUR: Cloud seeding has been conducted almost every day in areas with sufficient cumulus clouds since the haze problem began early last month.
And the Government has enough resources to continue such operations in areas severely hit by the haze.
“So far, we have had no problem with funding and our equipment is always on standby.
“We can do it anytime and any place, scattered throughout the country when the situation needs it,” said Science, Technology and Innovation Malaysia Deputy Minister Datuk Dr Abu Bakar Mohamad Diah.
He was speaking to reporters after launching the 4th Federation of Asian Polymer Societies and International Polymer Congress at Putra World Trade Centre yesterday.
Abu Bakar dismissed allegations that the Ministry had used harmful chemicals in any of its cloud seeding operations.
“The matter used in cloud seeding is natrium chloride, which is regular salt used for daily cooking. When we mix salt and spray it on the clouds, the clouds will become heavy and it will turn into rain.
“How is that harmful to the people?” he asked, urging the public not to believe rumours spread in social media.
Meanwhile, Langkawi recorded the highest air pollutant index (API) reading at 161 as of 2pm yesterday. It was among 17 locations which recorded unhealthy air levels.
The API reading for Langkawi taken at 11am was 168, according to the portal of the Department of Environment.
Others include Bakar Arang in Sungai Petani (Kedah) – with API readings of 102 – Kuala Selangor (128); Port Klang (122), Shah Alam (113); Banting (106); Port Dickson (109); Malacca City and Bukit Rambai in Malacca (108).
An API reading of 0 to 50 indicates good air quality; 51 to 100, moderate; 101 to 200, unhealthy; 201 to 300, very unhealthy and 300 and above, hazardous.
The public can check the DoE portal at apims.doe.gov.my for the latest API readings in their areas.
Related stories:Haze reaches southern Thailand
‘Indonesia doing its best to fight haze’
Already a subscriber? Log in
Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access
Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Unlimited access with perks.
