Five areas in Sarawak continued to record unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings as of 8am today, with authorities attributing the worsening air quality to transboundary haze.
Data from the Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) showed that Serian recorded the highest API reading at 170, followed by Samarahan and Bintulu at 156 each.
Kuching recorded an API reading of 153, while Samalaju registered 151. The latest figures represent an improvement from yesterday afternoon, when six areas in the state were classified as having unhealthy air quality.
The haze situation remains a concern as prevailing wind patterns are believed to be carrying smoke from hotspots in neighbouring areas into Sarawak.
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said yesterday that transboundary haze could affect 19 areas across the state over the coming days.
The areas identified include Betong, Bintulu, Daro, Julau, Kanowit, Kuching, Lundu, Marudi, Miri, Mukah, Pakan, Samarahan, Saratok, Serian, Sibu, Simunjan, Song, Sri Aman and Tatau.
Uggah, who is also chairman of the Sarawak State Disaster Management Committee, said the prevailing wind conditions were contributing to the movement of smoke from hotspots in neighbouring regions into Sarawak.
The authorities are continuing to monitor air quality levels across the state as the haze situation develops, with residents in affected areas advised to remain alert to changes in air pollution levels.
