Sarawak may experience haze in coming days, warns NREB

Borneo Post

2 days ago

A hazy Kuching skyline is observed from Bukit Siol in Petra Jaya in 2023. – Photo by Chimon Upon
KUCHING (July 21): Sarawak may experience haze in the coming days or weeks due to several contributing factors, said the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) Sarawak in a media statement today.
As of 8am, air quality readings across the state have shown an upward trend in the Air Pollutant Index (API) since July 19.
While three areas still recorded 'Good' air quality, fifteen were categorised as 'Moderate', and no area has recorded unhealthy levels so far.
According to NREB, regional developments could influence local air conditions. Data from the ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) showed that only four hotspots were detected in Sarawak between July 14 and 20.
'In contrast, Kalimantan, Indonesia, recorded 114 hotspots during the same period, with 93 of them detected in just the last two days.
'With the ongoing Southwest Monsoon, which began on May 10 and is expected to last until September, prevailing winds from the southwest may carry smoke haze from outside the state.
'Sarawak is therefore at risk of experiencing transboundary haze, particularly if biomass burning activities increase across the border,' added the NREB statement.
In response, the NREB has activated its haze operations room, suspended the issuance of open burning permits, and intensified field patrols and awareness campaigns on the prohibition of open burning.
The agency has urged developers and the general public to refrain from such practices, especially during the current dry and hot weather.
'The public is advised to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities, and wear N95 masks if necessary, particularly for vulnerable groups,' said the statement.
The NREB also reminded the public that open burning is a punishable offence under the Natural Resources and Environment Ordinance (Cap. 84 – Laws of Sarawak, Ed. 1958), with penalties of up to RM100,000 or five years' imprisonment, or both.
Apart from that, residents are encouraged to assist in extinguishing minor fires and to report open burning cases to the nearest NREB office or via its hotline at 082-447488 or 082-319500 and whistleblower confidentiality is protected under Section 38 of the same Ordinance. Air Pollutant Index haze Natural Resources and Environment Board