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🇸🇬 Singapore /Environment & Climate

Demand for face masks up before haze hits Johor

From The Straits Times · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Residents in Johor, Malaysia, are stocking up on face masks and limiting outdoor activities due to concerns about potential haze.
  • The precautionary measures are being taken despite the absence of immediate haze conditions in the state.
  • Authorities are monitoring the situation and urging the public to avoid panic buying.

Even though the haze has not yet reached Johor, Malaysia, some residents are proactively preparing for worsening air quality. They are purchasing face masks and reducing time spent outdoors, anticipating potential environmental challenges in the coming weeks.

Sharifah Faizah Salim, a 47-year-old housewife, explained her decision to equip her daughters, one of whom has asthma, with masks for school. "I think it is better to be prepared, as anything can happen these days," she stated. Concerned about her family's sensitivity to dust and the possibility of haze, she added, "It is best that we do not take any chances." She is also limiting her children's outdoor activities as a safety measure.

I think it is better to be prepared, as anything can happen these days.

— Sharifah Faizah SalimA housewife explaining her decision to buy face masks for her children.

Accountant Rebecca Tan, 32, echoed these concerns, buying masks for her elderly parents. She cited the potential impact of a Super El Nino event, which could exacerbate haze conditions through fires. "I am worried that if that happens, there may be panic buying. So, I think it is better to keep some masks aside for my parents in case I cannot get them later," Tan said.

It is best that we do not take any chances.

— Sharifah Faizah SalimA housewife explaining her decision to buy face masks for her children.

Pharmacies in Johor Bahru have reported a slight increase in face mask demand over the past week, with ample supplies available. The Johor Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living stated it has received no official complaints about shortages but will monitor the situation closely. The ministry also cautioned businesses against price gouging and reminded the public that supplies are sufficient.

As of August 16, air quality readings across Johor remained moderate, with Air Pollutant Index (API) levels between 51 and 100. However, three areas in Sarawak and Selangor recorded unhealthy API readings, with Serian in Sarawak registering the highest at 159.

I am worried that if that happens, there may be panic buying. So, I think it is better to keep some masks aside for my parents in case I cannot get them later.

— Rebecca TanAn accountant explaining her reasons for buying face masks for her parents.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Straits Times. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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