By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Aug 20: A total of 148 hotspots were detected across Sarawak between Aug 1 and Aug 19, while 7,286 hotspots were recorded in Kalimantan, Indonesia, raising concerns over the risk of transboundary haze affecting the State.
In a statement today, Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) said the ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) had reported moderate to dense transboundary smoke haze over West Kalimantan, with prevailing winds carrying the haze northwards into western Sarawak.
The board said hotspot activity and haze conditions could continue to increase in fire-prone areas experiencing prolonged dry weather, heightening the likelihood of transboundary haze episodes in the coming days.
NREB also reported that ambient air quality in Sarawak has shown a worsening trend since Aug 1, with nine areas recording Unhealthy Air Pollution Index (API) readings as of 8am today.
The affected areas were Kuching, Samarahan, Serian, Sri Aman, Sarikei, Sibu, Lundu, Tebedu and Lubok Antu, all of which recorded API readings between 101 and 200.
Eight other locations, including Mukah, Kapit, Bintulu, Samalaju, Miri, ILP Miri, Limbang and Lawas, were in the Moderate category, while Bario remained the only area with Good air quality.
The highest API readings were recorded in Serian and Lubok Antu at 185, followed by Kuching at 180 and Lundu at 175.
NREB noted that under the National Haze Action Plan, schools, kindergartens and childcare centres in Sarawak are required to close immediately once API readings reach 200, under the authority of the Sarawak Education Department director.
The board said the current haze situation is being influenced by the Southwest Monsoon season, which began on May 14 and is expected to continue until September.
During this period, consistent southwesterly winds may transport smoke from biomass burning activities outside Sarawak into the state, leading to further deterioration in air quality.
“NREB anticipates that haze conditions may persist over the next few days if biomass burning activities continue to increase beyond Sarawak’s borders,” the statement said.
Members of the public have been advised to stay hydrated, reduce strenuous outdoor activities and wear face masks when outdoors, particularly those in high-risk groups.
NREB also reminded the public not to carry out open burning, which could worsen air pollution during the current hot and dry conditions.
Those convicted of open burning offences may face prosecution under Sections 30(1)(a) and 30(2) of the Natural Resources and Environment Ordinance (Cap. 84), with penalties of up to RM100,000 in fines, five years’ imprisonment, or both.
The public is encouraged to report open burning incidents to the nearest NREB office or through its hotlines at 082-447488 and 082-319500. Confidentiality of informants is protected under Section 38 of the same ordinance. – DayakDaily
