Sarawak haze risk rises as biomass burning intensifies outside state
The state's air quality has shown rising Air Pollutant Index (API) readings since July 19, with 15 areas now in the moderate range.
NREB confirmed no unhealthy API readings yet but noted four hotspots in Sarawak between July 14 and 20.
In contrast, Kalimantan recorded 114 hotspots, 93 in just the last two days.
'The southwest monsoon could bring transboundary haze, worsening Sarawak's air quality,' the board stated.
To mitigate risks, NREB has activated its haze operations room, suspended controlled burning permits, and issued open burning prohibitions.
Public awareness campaigns are ongoing, urging reduced outdoor activities and N95 mask use for high-risk groups.
Open burning offenders face fines up to RM100,000 or five years' jail under Sarawak's environmental laws.
The public is encouraged to report fires via NREB's hotline (082-447488 / 082-319500), with whistleblower protections assured. – Bernama
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Sun
8 hours ago
- The Sun
Selangor forest fire under control, peatland monitoring continues
SHAH ALAM: The forest fires affecting several areas in Selangor have been successfully contained, according to Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari. However, authorities remain vigilant in monitoring peatland zones due to their heightened fire risk and prolonged extinguishing challenges. 'There were three fire incidents, namely in Kuala Kubu Bharu, Kajang and Seri Gombak. But Alhamdulillah they were brought under control immediately,' said Amirudin. He added that ongoing surveillance in Kuala Kubu Bharu aims to prevent reignition, with particular concern for peatland fires, which require extensive operations to manage. Speaking after launching the third Selangor Children's Book Festival at the PKNS Complex, Amirudin noted that the state government, through Public Health and Environment Exco Jamaliah Jamaluddin and the State Disaster Management Unit, is conducting daily haze monitoring. Increased patrols in high-risk zones aim to prevent recurring fires. On the book festival, Amirudin highlighted its role in supporting the local publishing industry, particularly for children's literature. Over 160 stalls and an estimated 80,000 visitors are expected at the four-day event, showcasing works from publishers and child-focused organisations. - Bernama
The Star
8 hours ago
- The Star
MetMalaysia issues level one hot weather alert for Sabah, Sarawak areas
KUALA LUMPUR: Eight areas, four each in Sabah and Sarawak, have recorded level one (alert) hot weather conditions as of 4pm on Friday (July 25). The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), in a Facebook update on the hot weather status, said that the four areas in Sabah were Kota Marudu, Beluran, Telupid and Sandakan. Meanwhile, the four areas in Sarawak were Sibu, Marudi, Telang Usan and Limbang. According to MetMalaysia, the level one heatwave alert is issued when the daily maximum temperature in an area reaches between 35 and 37 degrees Celsius for at least three consecutive days. For the latest updates on daily hot weather status, the public may visit MetMalaysia's website at - Bernama
Borneo Post
8 hours ago
- Borneo Post
Hot weather alert in parts of Sabah
KUALA LUMPUR (July 25): Eight areas, comprising four each in Sabah and Sarawak, recorded level one (alert) hot weather conditions as of 4 pm on Friday. The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), in a Facebook update on the hot weather status, said that the four areas in Sabah were Kota Marudu, Beluran, Telupid and Sandakan. Meanwhile, the four areas in Sarawak were Sibu, Marudi, Telang Usan and Limbang. According to MetMalaysia, the level one heatwave alert is issued when the daily maximum temperature in an area reaches between 35 and 37 degrees Celsius for at least three consecutive days. For the latest updates on daily hot weather status, the public may visit MetMalaysia's website at – Bernama
