Sarawak postpones three major programmes over haze concerns

THE Sarawak-level National Day Celebration 2026 and two other major events have been postponed as a precaution amid unhealthy air quality in several parts of the state, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.

The Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) chairman said the decision took into account the current air quality situation, with priority given to public safety, health and well-being.

The other events postponed are the ‘Sarawakku Sayang’ programme, scheduled for Aug 28 to 30 in Mukah and the 100th Anniversary Celebration of Rumah Mendit Penom, Spaoh, scheduled for Sept 1.

The 2026 Sarawak State-level National Day Celebration was earlier scheduled for Aug 30 to 31 in Kapit.

“SDMC, together with relevant agencies, will continue to monitor and coordinate measures based on the latest developments to ensure any risks to public safety and health are addressed appropriately,” he said in a statement today.

According to the hot weather report updated at 8 am on August 22, all 18 monitoring locations recorded PM2.5 readings ranging from 68 to 190.

Of those locations, 11 recorded air quality readings classified as unhealthy, while six were at moderate levels and one was recorded at a good level.

The highest PM2.5 reading was reported at the IPD Serian monitoring station under MCAQM, where the reading reached 190. Kuching and Lubok Antu each recorded 181, followed by Lundu at 179, Samarahan at 177, Sri Aman at 174 and Sarikei at 172.

Uggah also advised the public to reduce outdoor activities, especially when air quality reached an unhealthy level or higher, while high-risk groups such as children, senior citizens, pregnant women and those with respiratory or heart conditions should limit their exposure to polluted air.

“The public should close doors and windows if outdoor air quality deteriorates and monitors the latest readings through official Department of Environment channels.

“The cooperation of all parties is crucial in reducing health risks, fire risks and further deterioration of air quality throughout the haze period,” he said. – August 22, 2026