Kuching: Two regions in Sarawak, Kuching and Sri Aman, experienced very unhealthy air quality as of 8 am today, with the Air Pollutant Index (API) readings soaring to 235 and 216, respectively. According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) portal highlighted that 35 areas across eight states and three Federal Territories reported unhealthy API levels.

Sarawak topped the chart with 10 areas reporting unhealthy air quality, followed by Selangor with six areas, Johor with four, and Negeri Sembilan and Sabah each with three. Pahang and Melaka recorded two areas each, while Kuala Lumpur, Terengganu, Putrajaya, and Labuan each had one area with concerning API levels.

In Sarawak, areas such as Samalaju, Bintulu, Mukah, Samarahan, and Sarikei recorded API values ranging from 162 to 200. Selangor's unhealthy air quality was noted in places like Johan Setia and Shah Alam with readings between 153 and 179. Johor's regions of Segamat and Tangkak, among others, also showed concerning figures. Similarly, Negeri Sembilan, Sabah, Pahang, Melaka, Kuala Lumpur, Terengganu, Putrajaya, and Labuan reported unhealthy readings.

The Department of Environment (DOE) emphasized monitoring fires in scrubland and peatland areas in Mukah and Daro, Sarawak. While the fire at Jalan Sibujaya Barat was mostly extinguished, efforts at Sungai Nai are ongoing. Sarawak DOE is actively using drones for updated surveillance on these fires.

The DOE is vigilant in tracking API readings, hotspots, and meteorological shifts to ensure coordinated actions at various governance levels. Under the National Haze Action Plan, measures such as suspending outdoor activities and closing educational institutions are mandated based on API levels. The DOE warns against open burning, highlighting strict penalties under the Environmental Quality (Amendment) Act 2024 for violations. Public reporting of open burning is encouraged through emergency and toll-free lines.