KUCHING: Open burning is prohibited in Sarawak during the current hot spell to prevent air quality deterioration, according to the state Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB).
The NREB has ceased issuing controlled open burning permits and has issued notices to project developers prohibiting open burning.
Additionally, the agency has activated its haze operations room and is conducting patrols to prepare for potential hazy conditions.
"We are also holding awareness programmes with other agencies on the prohibition against open burning to protect the air quality," the NREB stated on Monday (July 21).
The public is cautioned against open burning activities, as offenders could face charges under the Natural Resources and Environment Ordinance.
The NREB seeks public cooperation to extinguish small-scale fires and report open burning cases to their hotline at 082-447 488 or 082-319 500.
The air pollutant index (API) in Sarawak has shown a rising trend since last Saturday (July 19), although no areas have recorded unhealthy air quality.
However, the Asean Specialised Meteorological Centre detected 114 hotspots in Kalimantan from July 14 to 20, with 93% detected in the last two days.
"As we are now in the southwest monsoon season, which is expected to last until September, the wind will blow consistently from the southwest.
"This can potentially lead to the occurrence of cross-border haze in Sarawak. Sarawak may experience hazy conditions in the coming days or weeks if the burning of biomass continues outside its borders," the NREB warned.
The public is advised to take precautionary measures during the hot weather, such as drinking plenty of water and reducing outdoor activities.
