KUCHING, April 19: The Air Pollutant Index (API) readings in Sarawak are still within the category of Good (0-50) to Moderate (51-100), says Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) Sarawak.
According to a press statement released by NREB Sarawak today, they are closely monitoring the latest development of the situation through five air quality monitoring stations, namely in Lundu, Tebedu, Lubok Antu, Bario, and Lawas, following the eruption of Mount Ruang on April 16.
In addition, the API readings from the Department of Environment (DOE) indicate that various areas in the State maintain air quality within the Good to Moderate range, with no alarming readings recorded.
Based on these API readings, the NREB has stated that the eruption of Mount Ruang in Indonesia has not had a direct impact toward the ambient air quality in Sarawak.
Meanwhile, the prevailing hot weather across most areas within the State is attributed to the inter monsoon conditions expected to persist until May, with the Malaysian Meteorological Department’s (MetMalaysia) report on March 31 indicated that the El-Nino phenomenon is forecasted to extend until June.
Given the ongoing hot weather conditions, the NREB has advised the public to avoid engaging in open burning activities to prevent worsening the situation as well as encouraged reporting any instances of open burning to both the NREB and DOE. —DayakDaily
