SARAWAK was the only state recording unhealthy air quality nationwide this morning, with all five affected stations in the state and Serian registering the highest Air Pollutant Index (API) reading at 189.
Data from the Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) showed Sri Aman had the second-highest reading at 176, followed by Kuching at 157.
Samarahan recorded an API reading of 156, while Sibu registered 110.
Across the country, 55 stations recorded moderate air quality and eight recorded good readings, with no station reporting very unhealthy or hazardous conditions as of 7.35am.
An API reading of zero to 50 indicates good air quality, 51 to 100 moderate, 101 to 200 unhealthy, 201 to 300 very unhealthy, and 301 and above hazardous.
Meanwhile, schools in only two Sarawak districts, Serian and Lubok Antu, will remain closed over haze concerns until Air Pollutant Index (API) readings fall below 200, the Sarawak State Education Department (JPNS) said.
The department said the decision followed continuous monitoring of API readings through the Department of Environment’s official Malaysian Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) portal, together with reports from the Malaysian Meteorological Department.
Schools under 12 other District Education Offices (PPD) will operate as usual from Monday.
They are Kuching, Padawan, Bau, Lundu, Samarahan, Simunjan, Sri Aman, Kanowit, Julau, Meradong, Bintulu and Tatau/Sebauh.
“Any changes regarding school operations or the latest developments will be announced from time to time,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, the Education Ministry (MOE), in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma), will soon distribute face masks to students, teachers and school staff at schools identified as being severely affected by the haze.
JPNS said the welfare, health and safety of students remained a top priority, particularly during hot weather and unexpected weather conditions.
The department also reminded schools to take appropriate measures should haze affect their respective areas or districts. - September 13, 2026
_director_Datuk_M._Kumar.jpg)
