NREB Sarawak said the Southwest Monsoon is now carrying a higher risk of transboundary haze, especially if biomass burning outside Sarawak intensifies.

The board said ASMC recorded 1,081 hotspots in Kalimantan from July 1 to 26. Of these, 442 were detected in the last five days. Sarawak recorded 16 hotspots during the same period.

As of noon on July 27, Serian recorded an API reading of 151, which falls under the unhealthy category. Kuching, Samarahan, Sri Aman, Sarikei, Sibu, Mukah, Bintulu, Samalaju, Lundu, Tebedu and Lubok Antu were in the moderate range.

NREB said it has activated its haze operations room, increased patrols, revoked earlier controlled-burning permits and suspended new controlled-burning permits for now.

Location: Sarawak, including Serian and Kuching
Details: NREB advised the public to drink enough water, reduce outdoor activity during hot and dry spells, and use N95 masks outdoors, especially for high-risk groups. Open burning can lead to a fine of up to RM100,000, jail up to five years, or both.

Photo credit: DayakDaily / NREB Sarawak
Source: DayakDaily

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