Sarawak Haze Worsens as Serian API Hits 191

What happened

Sarawak may face more haze in the coming days if biomass burning outside its borders intensifies. Serian recorded the highest Air Pollutant Index (API) reading in the state at 191 as of 12pm Thursday.

The Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) Daily Haze Watch reported the reading. Nine locations across Sarawak were affected by haze.

Why it matters

An API above 100 is unhealthy. The 191 reading is very unhealthy. This level can cause respiratory problems, especially for children and the elderly.

Prolonged haze disrupts schools, businesses, and daily routines. It also raises healthcare costs and cuts productivity.

Impact on Sarawak

Tourism and outdoor industries may suffer as visitors avoid hazy areas. Agriculture, particularly palm oil and pepper farming, could see reduced yields due to poor air quality.

Local businesses relying on outdoor work face disruptions. The haze also adds strain to public health services.

Regional context

Haze in Sarawak often comes from biomass burning in neighboring countries, especially Indonesia. Cross-border cooperation is needed to tackle the root cause.

Malaysia's Department of Environment monitors air quality nationwide. NREB issues daily updates for Sarawak.

What to expect

NREB will continue publishing daily haze watch reports. Residents should check API readings and limit outdoor activities when levels are unhealthy.

Authorities may consider cloud seeding or other measures if conditions persist. The situation could improve if winds shift or rain falls.

Key numbers

Serian's API hit 191, the highest in Sarawak, as of 12pm Thursday. Nine locations in the state were affected. An API above 100 is unhealthy; 191 is very unhealthy.

NREB provides daily haze updates. Monitoring remains essential.