Kuala lumpur: The government has mandated that all sports events during the current haze comply with established guidelines to safeguard the health and safety of athletes. Youth and Sports Minister Dr. Mohammed Taufiq Johari emphasized that the ministry is continuously monitoring the Air Pollutant Index (API) based on reports from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability and relevant agencies. According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr. Mohammed Taufiq stated that athletes training outdoors must adhere to the established guidelines to prevent any untoward incidents, particularly when API readings reach unhealthy levels. "The ministry is also in regular communication with the National Sports Institute and National Sports Council to ensure athletes remain in good health, particularly with the Asian Games fast approaching," he said. Dr. Taufiq highlighted the importance of ensuring outdoor training adheres to guidelines to prevent undesirable incidents. "Our athletes are now in intensive tr aining, and we want to make sure those training outdoors follow the guidelines set in place to avoid any undesirable incidents," he told reporters after attending the Flag-Off Ceremony for the Oregon Tower Run Series at The TOP Atrium today. Earlier, Dr. Mohammed Taufiq participated in the tower run event, reaching the 22nd floor in 6 minutes and 30 seconds. A total of 343 participants competed in the main event, ascending to the 68th floor of The TOP Komtar. Commenting on the situation in Serian, Sarawak, which has recorded hazardous API readings, Dr. Taufiq stated that outdoor activities in red-zone areas would not be permitted. However, he noted that sports activities could continue in areas where API readings are at safe or moderate levels. He added that any proposed sports events would require ministry approval, with decisions based on government guidelines and each area's API status. On Thursday, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim consented to a state of emergency declaration throughout the Serian division, p rompted by hazy conditions hazardous to public health and safety.