Haze from Kalimantan Forest Fires Blankets Sarawak

Haze caused by land fires in Kalimantan, Indonesia, is affecting air quality in Sarawak, Malaysia. The situation is expected to persist over the coming days as cross-border smoke continues to move into Sarawak.

The Sarawak Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) said the haze originated from the West Kalimantan area. On Thursday (20/8) afternoon, six areas in Sarawak recorded Air Pollutant Index (API) readings in the unhealthy category, ranging from 125 to 191.

Serian recorded the worst air quality with an API of 191. Similar conditions occurred in Kuching, which reached 188, and Sri Aman with a reading of 178.

Data from the ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) showed high levels of hotspot activity in Kalimantan compared with Sarawak. Throughout 1–19 August, ASMC detected 7,286 hotspots in Kalimantan, while 148 hotspots were recorded in Sarawak.

“ASMC observed moderate to dense cross-border smoke from West Kalimantan moving northward and entering several areas of western Sarawak,” the NREB said, as quoted by The Star on Thursday (20/8).

The movement of smoke has the potential to worsen air quality, especially in areas that are vulnerable to fires and are experiencing prolonged dry conditions.

The Sarawak government has urged the public to reduce outdoor activities while air quality deteriorates. Residents were also advised to maintain fluid intake and wear masks when they must be outdoors.