BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Air quality in Brunei Darussalam remained generally good to moderate on Sunday morning (Sept 13), with Brunei-Muara and Temburong recording readings in the good range.
According to the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation (JASTRe), Ministry of Development, the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) at 11am stood at 42 in Brunei-Muara and 46 in Temburong, placing both districts in the good category.
Meanwhile, Belait recorded a PSI of 57 and Tutong 54, with air quality in both districts classified as moderate.
Under the PSI classification, readings below 50 are considered good, while readings between 51 and 100 are moderate. Readings of 101 to 200 are unhealthy, 201 to 300 very unhealthy, and those above 300 hazardous.
JASTRe said it will continue monitoring air quality nationwide and provide PSI updates five times daily at 7am, 9am, 11am, 2pm and 4pm throughout the hazy period.
Since September 1, PM2.5 concentrations have been incorporated into the country’s PSI reporting. PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter measuring less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter, which can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream.
The Ministry of Health said normal outdoor activities may continue when PSI readings are moderate. However, children, pregnant women and the elderly are advised to reduce strenuous or prolonged outdoor physical activities, while individuals with heart or lung conditions should limit such activities.
Those experiencing persistent or worsening symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, chest discomfort or difficulty breathing should seek immediate medical attention.
The public is also reminded to refrain from open burning and other activities that could worsen haze conditions. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
