By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Sept 2: The Sarawakku Sayang programme scheduled to be held in Betong Division from Sept 11 to 13 has been postponed as a precautionary measure due to the worsening haze situation and unhealthy air quality affecting parts of Sarawak.
According to a notice issued today, the decision was made in line with the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee’s (SDMC) directive to suspend programmes and activities involving large gatherings of people.
The postponement comes as haze continues to affect air quality in several areas across the State, prompting authorities to take preventive measures to safeguard public health.
This marks the second postponement of the Sarawakku Sayang programme due to the haze. The Mukah leg, originally scheduled for Aug 28 to 30, was also postponed. The State-level National Day celebration, which was to be held in Kapit on Aug 30 and 31, as well as the centenary celebration of Rumah Mendit Penom in Spaoh on Sept 1, were similarly deferred.
SDMC recently urged organisers and members of the public to carefully assess prevailing Air Pollutant Index (API) readings, haze conditions and associated health risks before proceeding with or participating in any activity, particularly outdoor events.
The committee also advised the public to take proactive measures and adhere to health recommendations issued by the Ministry of Health (MOH) amid the deteriorating air quality.
Among the recommended precautions are staying indoors as much as possible during periods of severe haze, keeping windows and doors closed, reducing or avoiding outdoor physical activities and strenuous exercise, and limiting prolonged exposure to haze.
For those who must be outdoors, SDMC recommends the use of appropriate N95 respirators.
The public is also encouraged to stay adequately hydrated and maintain good personal hygiene during the haze period.
Individuals with chronic respiratory or cardiovascular conditions are advised to continue taking their prescribed medication and ensure that adequate supplies are readily available.
Particular attention should be given to vulnerable groups, including children, senior citizens, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic heart or lung conditions.
SDMC further urged the public to seek immediate medical attention if they experience significant breathing difficulties, persistent coughing, chest tightness or chest pain, severe eye irritation, dizziness, confusion, or unusual fatigue.
The committee also reminded the public to refrain from activities that could further deteriorate air quality, including smoking and open burning, as these contribute additional smoke and pollutants to the atmosphere. — DayakDaily
