KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s haze situation continues to worsen, with four areas on the west coast and the of interior Keningau and Tawau recording an unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) of over 150 to 170.
Despite strong winds and rains late Monday, API readings of Kota Kinabalu from two stations hit an unhealthy 176 as of 2pm.
Kimanis station in the south- western Beaufort and Papar districts recorded 162, Keningau (159) and Tawau (151).
Labuan also recorded unhealthy readings at 170.
State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin said yesterday that measures would be implemented in areas where API readings crossed into very unhealthy air pollutant levels of 200.
He said the state government is monitoring the situation, adding that people in affected areas should take precautions in view of the unhealthy air caused by transboundary fires, especially in Sabah’s neighbouring Kalimantan.
“Special attention should be given to children, the elderly and those more vulnerable to air pollution,” he added.
Since the haze affecting Sabah involves cross‑border issues, Jafry said the state government would cooperate with the Federal Government and regional partners to address the problem and reduce its impact on affected communities.
“We will continue to work with the relevant agencies to ensure appropriate measures are taken based on the latest situation,” he said.
Jafry also advised the public to follow updates and guidance issued by the authorities through official channels and adjust their daily activities according to current conditions.
Youth Development, Sports Advancement and Creative Economy Minister Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan said that residents in affected areas have been advised to reduce physical and outdoor activities when air quality is at unhealthy levels.
“I urge associations, clubs, coaches and event organisers to monitor API readings in their areas and adjust their training or outdoor programmes accordingly.
“If conditions are not favourable, high‑intensity outdoor activities should be reduced, postponed or moved indoors,” he said.
Nizam also urged the people not to carry out open burning, which would worsen air quality.
“Any incidents of open burning or fire should be reported immediately to the authorities so that action can be taken,” he added.
Nizam said the public should pay close attention to air quality reports, as API readings could change depending on weather and wind movement.
In a statement, the Sabah State Disaster Management Committee advised the public, particularly children, senior citizens, pregnant women and individuals with respiratory problems to reduce outdoor exposure and avoid strenuous physical activities.
Those who need to go outdoors are advised to wear suitable face masks, drink sufficient water, maintain personal hygiene and ensure good ventilation indoors.
Those experiencing symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath or chest pain are advised to seek treatment at the nearest healthcare facility.
According to the Sabah Department of Environment, the present situation was mainly caused by thick smoke from forest and peatland fires in Kalimantan, carried by winds into Borneo, including Sabah.
