Haze Worsens: 5 Sarawak Areas Record Unhealthy API — Kuching Hits 156
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Smoke from Kalimantan wildfires has pushed air quality across western Sarawak into unhealthy territory.
As of 11am today (Aug 8), five stations in Sarawak recorded unhealthy API readings:
- Serian: 172 (highest)
- Kuching: 156
- Samarahan: 155
- Bintulu: 152
- Sri Aman: 139
Other areas like Mukah (98), Sarikei (97), Sibu (93), and Miri (86) remain moderate — for now.
Source of the haze
The ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre detected 643 hotspots in Kalimantan and 22 in Sarawak alone, with thick smoke from West Kalimantan drifting northward into western Sarawak.
What's being done
The Department of Environment has activated both the National Open Burning Action Plan and National Haze Action Plan. Enforcement patrols have been stepped up.
Under the Environmental Quality Act (Amendment) 2024, open burning offenders face fines of RM25,000 to RM1 million or up to five years' jail.
School closures on standby
Schools and childcare centres must close immediately if API readings exceed 200. Outdoor activities are already suspended when API passes 100. Nadma will activate disaster committees when readings exceed 150 for more than 24 hours.
Affected areas: Kuching, Serian, Samarahan, Bintulu, Sri Aman
Source: DayakDailyStay safe, wear a mask if you're heading out. What do you think?
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