Six Areas in Sarawak Record Unhealthy Air Quality

Six locations in Sarawak, Malaysia, are experiencing unhealthy air quality, according to the latest readings from the Department of Environment's API Management System. As of 7 a.m. today, the highest unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) reading was recorded in Serian at 183.

Other areas in Sarawak also saw significant levels of pollution. Kuching recorded an API of 178, Sri Aman reached 172, Samarahan was at 162, Sarikei registered 152, and Sibu had an API of 114. These readings fall within the 'unhealthy' range, which is between 101 and 200.

In contrast to the affected areas in Sarawak, a larger portion of the country is experiencing moderate air quality. A total of 52 locations across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak reported moderate API levels. Additionally, 10 locations in Peninsular Malaysia recorded good air quality readings, indicating levels between 0 and 50.

The API categorizes air quality into several bands: good (0-50), moderate (51-100), unhealthy (101-200), very unhealthy (201-300), hazardous (301-400), very hazardous (401-500), and emergency (over 501). The current readings in Sarawak indicate a need for caution among residents in the affected areas.