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Air quality in Sarawak reaches hazardous levels across three districts

Three areas in Sarawak have recorded unhealthy air quality readings, with Kuching, Sri Aman and Samarahan all registering Air Pollution Index values well above safe thresholds.

LSN Malaysia · 8 September 2026

Air quality in Sarawak reaches hazardous levels across three districts

Air quality in Sarawak has deteriorated to hazardous levels, with three districts recording dangerously high Air Pollution Index (API) readings on Tuesday. Kuching recorded the highest reading at 249, followed by Sri Aman at 235 and Samarahan at 233, all firmly in the unhealthy range and well above the recommended safe level of 50.

The hazardous air quality poses significant health risks to residents, particularly those with respiratory conditions, children and elderly persons. Authorities typically advise the public to limit outdoor activities and use protective masks when air quality reaches such critical levels.

The deterioration in air quality across the three districts suggests widespread pollution affecting the wider region. Officials have not yet disclosed the primary sources of the pollutants or issued formal health advisories, though such readings typically warrant immediate public health warnings.

Malaysians familiar with seasonal haze events are aware of the health implications of sustained poor air quality. Residents in the affected areas are advised to monitor official air quality updates and take appropriate precautions to protect their health.