By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Sept 5: Serian will remain under the state of emergency for the next three days despite an improvement in its Air Pollutant Index (API), with workplaces and businesses in the affected area allowed to continue operating subject to health precautionary measures.
The Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) said it was closely monitoring the haze situation in the district, including air quality readings, weather conditions, hotspots and the movement of haze, to determine appropriate action as the situation develops.
As of 10am today, the Serian air quality monitoring station recorded an API reading of 334, a significant drop from 521 recorded on Sept 4, but still placing the district in the hazardous category.
SDMC said it would continue monitoring the API level in Serian over the next three days, particularly in anticipation of possible fluctuations that could see the reading rise above 500.
“The API is primarily affected by the wind direction and source of hotspots,” SDMC said in a statement today.
It said the three-day monitoring period would be carried out before any recommendation was made to Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on the status of the emergency in Serian.
Meanwhile, government and private offices as well as other workplaces in the affected area may continue their operations.
This includes industries, plantations, construction sites and quarries, although SDMC stressed that all operators must take appropriate health precautionary measures to protect workers and the public.
The public is also advised to avoid outdoor activities during the haze.
“Where outdoor exposure is unavoidable, wear an N95 mask, or at minimum a 3-ply mask, and take particular care of children, senior citizens and those who are more vulnerable to the effects of haze,” SDMC said.
SDMC said it would continue to monitor the situation closely and provide further updates as necessary, while working closely with all relevant State and federal agencies.
“The health, safety and wellbeing of the people of Sarawak remain our highest priority,” it said. — DayakDaily
