The air quality in Sarawak has significantly deteriorated, with four areas recording hazardous Air Pollutant Index (API) readings as of 9 am today. This is an increase from the three areas that recorded hazardous API readings yesterday. According to the Department of Environment's Malaysian Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) portal, Sri Aman is the latest area to record a hazardous API reading.
The API reading at the Serian District Police Headquarters (IPD) monitoring station reached 475, followed by Samarahan with a reading of 334, Sri Aman with 330, and Kuching with 324. These readings indicate a hazardous level of air pollution, posing serious health risks to residents in these areas. In addition to these areas, three other regions recorded very unhealthy API readings, including Sarikei with a reading of 271, Sibu with 219, and Mukah with 214.
Several other areas in Sarawak recorded unhealthy API readings, including Samalaju with 180, Miri with 171, Miri Industrial Training Institute (ILP) with 169, Kapit with 164, Bintulu with 161, and Limbang with 159. The API is used to measure the level of air pollution, with readings ranging from zero to 50 indicating good air quality, 51 to 100 indicating moderate air quality, 101 to 200 indicating unhealthy air quality, 201 to 300 indicating very unhealthy air quality, and above 300 indicating hazardous air quality. The Department of Environment updates the API figures hourly based on readings from 68 monitoring stations nationwide.
The public can access the latest API readings through the APIMS portal to stay informed about the current air quality in their area. As the situation continues to worsen, residents in affected areas are advised to take necessary precautions to protect their health. In related news, the Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART) is on standby to assist in search and rescue operations in Nepal following the recent floods.
However, the team is still awaiting feedback from the Nepalese government regarding its readiness to receive the team. Meanwhile, the National Day 2026 celebrations are underway in Putrajaya, with thousands of Malaysians gathering to mark the occasion. The air quality in Sarawak is expected to continue being monitored closely, with updates provided regularly through the APIMS portal.
Residents are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect their health. The situation will likely continue to evolve, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. The API readings are a critical indicator of air quality, and the public is urged to stay informed about the current conditions in their area.
By staying up to date with the latest API readings, residents can take necessary precautions to protect their health and minimize the risks associated with poor air quality. As the situation in Sarawak continues to unfold, the public is advised to remain vigilant and take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety and well-being.
