World · Malaysia Bureau
Sarawak air quality plummets as haze shrouds two districts
Two areas in Sarawak experienced hazardous air quality conditions on Monday morning, with pollution levels surging well into the 'very unhealthy' category. The deterioration marks an escalation in regional haze affecting the state.
LSN Malaysia ·
Kanowit and Lubok Antu recorded dangerously elevated air pollutant index (API) readings on Monday morning, with the former registering 244 and the latter 205, both well above the 200-point threshold that designates air quality as 'very unhealthy'.
The spike in pollution levels indicates worsening atmospheric conditions across parts of Sarawak, with the two districts becoming focal points of the haze affecting the region. At these API levels, the general public faces increased health risks, and vulnerable groups including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions are particularly susceptible to adverse effects.
Authorites have not immediately provided details on the sources of the pollution or the duration of the hazardous conditions. Residents in affected areas are typically advised to limit outdoor activities, use air purification measures indoors, and monitor official updates on air quality developments.
The API serves as Malaysia's standard measurement for air quality, with readings above 200 classified as 'very unhealthy' and readings exceeding 300 considered 'hazardous' to the general population.