SARAWAK’S haze crisis has intensified, with five areas recording hazardous Air Pollutant Index (API) readings this morning, led by Serian at a dangerous 415.
Data from the Department of Environment’s (DOE) Malaysian Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) at 6am showed Kuching recording an API of 405, followed by Samarahan at 369, Sri Aman at 355 and Sarikei at 328.
The readings indicate that air quality across large parts of Sarawak has deteriorated to levels posing serious health concerns.
Four other areas recorded very unhealthy air quality, with Sibu registering an API of 298, followed by Mukah at 228, Bintulu at 221 and Samalaju at 218.
Another four areas recorded unhealthy readings, led by ILP Miri at 184, followed by Miri at 178, Kapit at 176 and Limbang at 166.
The worsening haze has been attributed to increased open burning and forest fires in neighbouring countries, compounded by hot and dry weather that allows smoke to accumulate more readily.
The deteriorating air quality has raised concerns over increased health risks, particularly among children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with respiratory or lung-related conditions.
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said yesterday that the average number of acute upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) cases in the state had risen from about 1,717 cases a week earlier this year to 1,752 cases a week in recent weeks, following the deterioration in air quality since early August.
He said cases of conjunctivitis had also increased, averaging about 21 cases a week compared with 17 previously. - September 1, 2026
