Malaysia declares emergency in Sarawak town as haze pollution level hits 521

Malaysia has declared an emergency in Serian, a town in Sarawak state on Borneo Island, due to severe haze pollution. The Air Pollutant Index in Serian reached 521 on Friday, exceeding the country's emergency threshold, with the capital, Kuching, recording a hazardous reading of 311. This pollution is linked to fires in neighboring Indonesia's Kalimantan province. The declaration of emergency, consented to by Malaysia's King Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar, aims to enable more effective measures to combat the situation. Officials have indicated that readings above 500 can lead to the halting of non-essential work and outdoor activities, while schools are already closed if the index surpasses 200.

Malaysia has declared an emergency in the town of Serian, Sarawak, due to critically high air pollution levels caused by fires in neighboring Indonesia. The Air Pollutant Index in Serian reached 521, exceeding the emergency threshold, while the state capital, Kuching, recorded a hazardous reading of 311. The emergency declaration, consented to by Malaysia's King, aims to enable more effective measures to combat the haze. This recurring seasonal problem is particularly severe this year due to elevated fire activity in Indonesia and dry conditions. Indonesian authorities have arrested 112 individuals suspected of starting fires and suspended the business licenses of five companies.