By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, July 25: All activities outside classrooms must be suspended immediately when the Air Pollutant Index (API) reading exceeds 100.
As of 6pm today, the API reading in Kuching city has soared to 119, reaching unhealthy level.
The Department of Environment (DOE) director-general Dato’ Wan Abdul Latiff Wan Jaffar emphasised that this is among the key measures outline in the National Haze Action Plan (PTJK), which guides haze management across Malaysia and involves coordinated responses from multiple agencies.
“In line with the PTJK, the DOE continuously monitors air quality and takes action together with relevant agencies,” he said in a statement today.
He added that if the API exceeds 150 for more than 24 hours, the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) will activate Disaster Management Committees at the district, state, or federal level.
More stringent measures kick in as air quality worsens. If the API surpasses 200, all schools, kindergartens, and childcare centres must be closed immediately.
“These institutions are also advised to monitor API trends closely and prepare for closure if readings approach this threshold,” he said.
Cloud seeding operations (OPA) may also be carried out if the API remains above 150 for more than 24 hours, provided weather conditions and cloud presence are suitable.
Wan Abdul Latiff emphasised that the DOE, in collaboration with relevant ministries and agencies, will continue to respond swiftly and effectively based on these protocols to protect public health and safety.
The public is encouraged to monitor real-time API readings via the DOE website at https://eqms.doe.gov.my/APIMS/main or through the MyJAS EQMS mobile app available on Google Play and the App Store.
Health-related guidance and haze precautionary measures are available on the Ministry of Health website at www.moh.gov.my.
The DOE also reminded the public not to carry out open burning or allow such activities on their land or premises, warning that such offences are punishable under Section 29(A) of the Environmental Quality Act 1974.
“Convicted individuals may face a fine of up to RM1 million, imprisonment of up to five years, or both. Compounds of up to 50 per cent of the maximum fine may also be imposed,” Wan Abdul Latiff warned.
Members of the public are urged to report open burning or fire incidents immediately to Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) at 999 and DOE at toll-free line 1-800-88-2727.
“The cooperation of all Malaysians is essential in mitigating the impact of haze and ensuring a safe environment for everyone,” he stressed. — DayakDaily
