Haze Emergency Declared in Serian District, Sarawak
The authorities have declared a state of emergency in the Serian district of Sarawak following a deterioration in air quality due to the haze. This measure was taken as an immediate action to ensure the safety and health of the residents in the area.
The Air Pollutant Index (API) readings in Serian have recorded unhealthy levels over the past few days. This situation stems from open burning activities as well as dry weather conditions affecting the region, causing thick smoke to blanket residential areas and schools.
Following this emergency declaration, all schools in the Serian district have been ordered to close immediately until the situation returns to normal. The government also advises the public to limit outdoor activities and wear face masks if they need to leave their homes to avoid respiratory problems.
The National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) is currently working with the fire department and the department of environment to monitor the situation from time to time. Forest firefighting operations are being actively carried out to reduce the impact of the spreading haze.
Residents in Sarawak are urged to stay alert for official announcements from the authorities and not to spread false information on social media. The government hopes that this situation can be brought under control immediately for the well-being of all residents in the affected areas.