Serian: The usually vibrant streets of Serian town, typically bustling with weekend crowds, appeared unusually quiet today, amidst the ongoing haze and the declaration of an emergency in the area.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, a check around the town found that health concerns had disrupted daily activities. However, the Air Pollutant Index (API) readings on the Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) portal showed a downward trend from the hazardous levels above 500 recorded the day before.

Resident Elton Arib, 33, from nearby Kampung Engkeroh, remarked that this weekend felt starkly different from the usual, blanketed by thick haze and the pungent smell of smoke. "Normally, the town is full of people on weekends. But today, it's quiet because of the haze. It's the school holidays, but we're not letting our kids go out. We're scared it might affect their health. We're also getting them to drink more boiled water. With schools shut next week too, my primary school kid will be looked after by his grandmother in the village." He added, "In this kind of weather, even motorcyclists like me have to be very careful. We can't ride fast because we can't see clearly."

The hazardous haze has also taken a toll on traders, including Siti Shahrizan Lamat, 25, who said the drop in customer footfall has directly affected her family's daily income. "People are scared to come out because of the haze. Sales were really slow yesterday, and this shop is our only regular income. This morning is a bit clearer than yesterday, but the town is still much emptier than a usual weekend," said the mother of one.

Fruit seller Sakong Lek, 63, from Kampung Serian Hilir, echoed similar sentiments, hoping for clearer skies. He mentioned that the light drizzle early this morning had brought some relief.