KUALA LUMPUR: Eight areas in Sarawak and one in Selangor have Air Pollution Index (API) readings at unhealthy levels as of 6pm on Sunday (Aug 9), according to the Air Pollution Index Management System (Apims).
In Sarawak, three more areas, namely Miri with an API reading of 119, Sarikei (152) and Sri Aman (154), recorded unhealthy levels due to cross-border haze this afternoon, bringing the total to eight areas compared to five on Sunday morning.
Five areas that previously recorded unhealthy readings were Kuching with an API of 156, Samarahan (157), Serian (169), Bintulu (154) and Samalaju (152).
In the Peninsula, Johan Setia in Selangor is the only area that is at an unhealthy level with a reading of 153.
Meanwhile, 57 areas in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak are at a moderate level, while Langkawi in Kedah and Kangar in Perlis each recorded readings at a good level.
According to Apims, an API reading between 0 and 50 is categorised as good, 51 to 100 (moderate), 101 to 200 (unhealthy), 201 to 300 (very unhealthy) and above 301 (hazardous).
Meanwhile, the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) in a significant weather forecast notice said that hot and less rainy weather is expected to occur in most areas of Borneo, including Sarawak, until Aug 14.
According to MetMalaysia, the influence of winds from the south and the expected high number of hotspots in neighbouring countries have the potential to cause trans-boundary haze and reduce visibility, especially in southern Sarawak.
The public is advised to always refer to the official MetMalaysia website and social media, as well as download the myCuaca app to obtain the latest and accurate information. – Bernama
