BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Air quality remained unhealthy in three of Brunei’s four districts at 11am on Sunday, with Belait continuing to record the highest Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) reading in the country.
According to the latest update from the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation (JASTRe), Belait recorded a PSI of 136 at 11am, followed by Brunei-Muara at 113 and Tutong at 108.
All three remained within the unhealthy range of 101 to 200. Temburong was the only district with moderate air quality, with its PSI improving further to 87.
The readings showed mixed changes from 9am, when Belait registered 128, Brunei-Muara 112, Tutong 109 and Temburong 94.
Belait saw the biggest increase over the two-hour period, rising eight points from 128 to 136, while Brunei-Muara edged up from 112 to 113. Tutong improved slightly from 109 to 108, while Temburong fell seven points from 94 to 87.
Despite the increases in Belait and Brunei-Muara, the situation showed an overall improvement from 7am, when all four districts were in the unhealthy range. At the time, Belait recorded 137, Brunei-Muara 132, Temburong 105 and Tutong 107.
JASTRe said air quality reporting has incorporated PM2.5 concentrations into the PSI since September 1. The World Health Organization defines PM2.5 as fine particulate matter measuring less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter, which can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
The department will continue monitoring air quality nationwide and issue PSI updates five times daily at 7am, 9am, 11am, 2pm and 4pm throughout the hazy period.
The Ministry of Health advised the public to reduce strenuous or prolonged outdoor activities and unnecessary exposure to haze when PSI readings reach unhealthy levels.
Children, older persons and pregnant women are advised to restrict strenuous or prolonged outdoor activities, while those with existing heart or respiratory conditions should avoid such activities.
Anyone experiencing persistent or worsening symptoms including coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest discomfort or difficulty breathing should seek medical attention.
The public is also reminded to refrain from open burning or other activities that could worsen haze conditions. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
