2 hours ago
3
ADVERTISE HERE
The bush fire along Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman in Sibu on March 27, 2026. Photo: BombaAdvertisement
By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Mar 28: A total of 17 areas in Sarawak have recorded Moderate readings in the Air Pollution Index (API) as of 12pm today.
In a statement issued by the Sarawak Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB), ambient air quality in Sarawak has shown an upward trend in API readings since mid-March 2026.
Advertisement
“This situation is expected to be influenced by the inter-monsoon phase, which will begin tomorrow (Mar 29) until May 2026, bringing weak winds from various directions.
“The increase in API levels is likely due to localised open burning as well as transboundary haze. Should dry weather conditions persist and biomass burning activities increase, Sarawak may face a risk of haze,” said the board.
It added that according to the Asean Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC), a total of 241 hotspots were detected in Kalimantan, Indonesia, throughout March 2026, while 18 hotspots were recorded in Sarawak during the same period.
“The board has taken various proactive measures, including activating the haze operations room, conducting field patrols, temporarily suspending the issuance of controlled burning permits, and issuing notices prohibiting open burning to all project developers.
“The public is advised to take precautionary measures by ensuring adequate water intake, reducing outdoor activities, and wearing face masks when outdoors, particularly for high-risk groups,” it said.
Meanwhile, the NREB also said that it will investigate open burning incidents in Kuala Tatau–Serupai, Bintulu and Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, Sibu—emphasising that legal action will be taken against those found responsible.
Members of the public have been urged to report any open burning incidents to the nearest NREB office or via the NREB Hotline at 082-447488 or 082-319500. The identity of informants will be kept confidential. — DayakDaily
English (US) ·