KUCHING: Transboundary haze is expected to affect 19 areas in Sarawak over the coming days, with unhealthy PM2.5 concentrations forecast in Miri and Serian on Saturday (Aug 8), followed by Betong on Sunday (Aug 9), said Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
Uggah, who is also Sarawak Disaster Management Committee chairman, said the areas identified are Betong, Bintulu, Daro, Julau, Kanowit, Kuching, Lundu, Marudi, Miri, Mukah, Pakan, Samarahan, Saratok, Serian, Sibu, Simunjan, Song, Sri Aman and Tatau.
"The latest Haze Movement Report issued by the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) indicated that the haze affecting parts of Sarawak was transboundary in nature, with prevailing wind patterns carrying smoke from hotspots in neighbouring regions into the state.
"Based on the latest assessment, transboundary haze is expected to affect several areas in Sarawak over the coming days,” he said in a statement on Saturday.
Earlier, the Environment Department reported that five areas in Sarawak recorded unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings as of 8am, namely Serian (171), Kuching (154), Samarahan (154), Sri Aman (139) and Bintulu (124).
The department said the deterioration was due to haze movement from various directions, with moderate to thick smoke plumes observed in West Kalimantan moving northwards into western Sarawak, while moderate to dense smoke plumes were also detected over other parts of Kalimantan and central Sarawak.
Meanwhile, Uggah said weather conditions and wind patterns could change and advised the public to remain vigilant and monitor the latest API readings and official advisories.
He advised the public to reduce outdoor activities, particularly strenuous exercise, when air quality deteriorates, keep doors and windows closed during periods of heavy haze and wear suitable face masks when outdoors, especially children, the elderly and individuals with respiratory conditions.
Uggah reminded the public that open burning is an offence under the Sarawak Natural Resources and Environment Ordinance, with offenders liable to a fine of up to RM100,000, imprisonment for up to five years, or both.
Reports of open burning cases can be made to the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) via 082-447 488 or 082-319 500. — Bernama
