By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Aug 13: Air quality in Serian and Tebedu improved overnight, although several areas across Sarawak continued to record unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings this morning as haze conditions persisted across the State.
According to data released by the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) Sarawak, Serian’s API reading fell from 201 yesterday evening to 183 as of 8am today, moving from the Very Unhealthy category into the Unhealthy range.
Tebedu also recorded a marked improvement, with its API dropping from 214 to 175, resulting in its air quality status improving from Very Unhealthy to Unhealthy.
As of 8am today, seven stations recorded Unhealthy API readings, namely Kuching (177), Samarahan (183), Sri Aman (159), Sarikei (158), Sibu (152), Mukah (152) and Lundu (111).
The remaining stations registered Moderate air quality levels, including Kapit (67), Bintulu (93), Samalaju (84), Miri (98), ILP Miri (76), Limbang (70), Lubok Antu (91), Lawas (69) and Bario (75).
Under Malaysia’s API classification, readings between 101 and 200 are categorised as Unhealthy, posing health risks particularly to vulnerable groups such as children, senior citizens, and individuals with heart or respiratory conditions. Readings between 201 and 300 fall under the Very Unhealthy category and may have adverse health effects on the wider population.
Authorities have advised the public, particularly those living in areas with unhealthy air quality, to minimise prolonged outdoor activities, stay hydrated and take appropriate protective measures when outdoors. — DayakDaily
