Serian records state’s highest API reading, with hazy conditions expected to continue in 19 districts.
The Borneo Post reported that based on the environment department’s Air Pollutant Index Management System, Serian recorded Sarawak’s highest Air Pollutant Index (API) reading at 162 as of noon, followed by Samarahan at 140 and Kuching at 139.
An API reading between 101 and 200 is classified as “unhealthy” and may pose health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions.
Pontianak recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 226 at midnight, placing it in the “very unhealthy” category.
The Asean Specialised Meteorological Centre reported 905 hotspots in Kalimantan over the past three days, compared with only six in Sarawak, indicating that Indonesia remains the main source of the haze.
Forest and land fires have contributed to deteriorating air quality in Pontianak, with smoke spreading into urban areas.
The meteorological department has forecast hazy conditions to continue tomorrow in 19 areas, including Bau, Bintulu, Dalat, Daro, Kanowit, Kapit, Kuching, Lundu, Matu, Meradong, Miri, Mukah, Samarahan, Sarikei, Selangau, Sibu, Simunjan, Song and Tatau.
Meanwhile, Indonesian health authorities have advised residents to limit outdoor activities until air quality improves. They also recommended keeping doors and windows closed, wearing face masks outdoors and using air purifiers where available.
PM2.5 particles, the main pollutant in haze, can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of respiratory problems, especially among children, older people, pregnant women and those with chronic health conditions. - FMT
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