BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Air quality across Brunei remained at moderate levels on Sunday morning (Oct 11), with Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) readings ranging between 69 and 80 across all four districts as of 9am.
According to the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation (JASTRe) under the Ministry of Development, Tutong recorded the highest PSI reading at 80, followed by Temburong at 79, Brunei-Muara at 73 and Belait at 69.
The latest readings showed improvements in Tutong and Belait compared to 7am, when the districts recorded PSI levels of 92 and 80 respectively. Temburong remained unchanged at 79, while Brunei-Muara saw a slight increase from 70 to 73.
All four districts remained within the moderate air quality category, which covers PSI readings between 51 and 100.
The Ministry of Health advised that outdoor activities may continue as usual under moderate air quality conditions. However, children, pregnant women and the elderly are encouraged to reduce strenuous or prolonged outdoor physical activities.
Individuals with heart or lung conditions are also advised to limit such activities, while those experiencing persistent or worsening symptoms, including coughing, shortness of breath, chest discomfort or breathing difficulties, should seek immediate medical attention.
JASTRe said air quality reporting in the Sultanate has been enhanced since September 1 to incorporate fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations into PSI calculations.
According to the World Health Organization, PM2.5 refers to fine particles measuring less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter, which can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting cardiovascular and respiratory health.
The department will continue monitoring air quality nationwide, with PSI updates issued five times daily at 7am, 9am, 11am, 2pm and 4pm throughout the hazy period.
Meanwhile, the public is reminded to refrain from open burning and other activities that could worsen haze conditions during the dry period. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
