KUALA LUMPUR (Aug 12): The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) warned on Wednesday that lower rainfall and higher temperatures could worsen the risk of water shortages, forest fires and haze in areas experiencing prolonged dry weather.
In a statement, the ministry said 11 of 68 air quality monitoring stations recorded “unhealthy” API readings as of 3pm on Aug 12, with stations in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Selangor and Sarawak affected. Serian, Sarawak recorded a “very unhealthy” reading.
Malaysia has been experiencing haze since Aug 8, with the current El Niño phenomenon and southwest monsoon contributing to below-average rainfall in southern Peninsular Malaysia, and western and southern Sarawak.
NRES said the poor air quality in Sarawak was caused by cross-border haze and local fires, including a landfill fire in Sibu, and a forest and bush fire in Sri Aman covering about 100 hectares.
According to the Asean Specialised Meteorological Centre, dry conditions are expected to continue across most of southern Asean, increasing the risk of hotspots and cross-border haze.
NRES advised people in affected areas to reduce outdoor activities, wear face masks and stay hydrated. Open burning is also prohibited to prevent the haze from worsening.