.png)
1 hour ago
1
KUCHING, Sept 5 — Government, private offices and other workplaces affected by the haze emergency in Serian, including industries, plantations, construction sites and quarries may continue their operations but must take health precautionary measures.
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who is also state Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) chairman, said the committee is closely monitoring the haze situation across Sarawak, particularly the Air Pollutant Index (API) reading in Serian.
“SDMC is currently monitoring the API level in Serian within these three days in anticipation for any fluctuation of the API level, should it increase to a level above 500.
“This monitoring is to be done before any recommendation to be proposed to Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on the status of emergency in Serian,” he said in a statement today.
He said the API is primarily affected by wind direction and the source of hotspots.
According to SDMC, the Serian air quality monitoring station recorded an API reading of 334 as at 10 am, which was in the hazardous category.
Uggah advised the public to avoid outdoor activities, wear an N95 or three-ply mask if outdoor exposure is unavoidable, and take particular care of children, senior citizens and those who are more vulnerable to the effects of haze.
“SDMC will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide further updates as necessary. We will continue to work closely with all relevant state and federal agencies,” he said.
His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, has consented to the declaration of an emergency in Serian Division after the API reading exceeded 500.
The decision was made after taking into account the advice of the Prime Minister and Premier of Sarawak alongside related agencies, regarding air quality in the affected area, said the Prime Minister’s Office in a statement on Friday (September 4). — Bernama
English (US) ·