17 areas record moderate API readings in Sarawak

An API reading of zero to 50 indicates good air quality, 51-100 moderate, 101-200 unhealthy, 201-300 very unhealthy, and above 300 hazardous.

Sarawak’s Natural Resources and Environment Board said the situation was influenced by the inter-monsoon phase expected to begin today until May, bringing light and variable winds that may trap pollutants in the atmosphere.

“The increase in API levels is likely due to localised open burning and transboundary haze,” Bernama quoted the board as saying in a statement.

“If dry weather conditions persist and biomass burning activities increase, Sarawak risks experiencing haze.”

The board said that based on a report by the Asean Specialised Meteorological Centre, 241 hotspots were detected in Kalimantan, Indonesia, while 18 hotspots were recorded in Sarawak.

It said it had taken proactive measures, including activating its haze operations room, conducting field patrols, suspending the issuance of controlled burning permits, and issuing notices prohibiting open burning to all project developers.

Meanwhile, investigations were being carried out into open burning cases in Kuala Tatau-Serupai, Bintulu and Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, Sibu, with action to be taken against those found responsible.