Sarawak May Face Haze If Biomass Burning Outside State Intensifies – NREB

KUCHING, July 21 (Bernama) -- Sarawak may experience haze in the coming days or weeks if biomass burning continues to intensify beyond the state’s borders, according to the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) Sarawak.

In a statement today, NREB said the state’s ambient air quality has shown a rising trend in Air Pollutant Index (API) readings since July 19, and as of 8 am today, 15 areas recorded API readings in the moderate category, while three areas were in the good category.

“No areas have recorded API readings in the unhealthy category so far,” the statement said, adding that the ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre reported four hotspots detected in Sarawak between July 14 and yesterday.

However, during the same period, 114 hotspots were detected in Kalimantan, Indonesia, with 93 of them recorded in the last two days, on July 19 and 20.

“Given that the country is currently in the southwest monsoon phase, which began on May 10 and is expected to end in September 2025, the region will experience consistent winds from the southwest.

“This condition may lead to potential transboundary haze and deterioration of ambient air quality in Sarawak,” it said.

To address the situation, NREB has activated its haze operations room, conducted field patrols, suspended the issuance of controlled burning permits, and issued notices prohibiting open burning to all project developers.

It has also carried out awareness programmes on the ban of open burning with other agencies to ensure air quality is maintained. In addition, it urged all parties to take joint responsibility in addressing the causes and reducing the risk of haze.

“The public is also advised to take precautions during this hot and dry period, including staying hydrated, limiting outdoor activities and wearing face masks (N95 respirators) when engaging in outdoor activities, especially high-risk groups,” the statement said.

NREB also reminded the public not to carry out open burning, which can lead to air pollution, especially during the dry season.

Anyone caught carrying out open burning can be prosecuted under Sections 30(1)(a) and 30(2) of the Sarawak Natural Resources and Environment Ordinance and, upon conviction, may be fined up to RM100,000 or sentenced to five years’ imprisonment or both.

NREB also called on the public to help extinguish small fires and report open burning cases to the nearest NREB office or via its hotline at 082-447488 or 082-319500.

It added that the confidentiality of reports is protected under Section 38 (Whistleblower Protection) of the same ordinance.

-- BERNAMA