KUCHING: The Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) reports that most areas in Sarawak, particularly in Kuching, Kota Samarahan, Sri Aman, Betong, Sarikei and Sibu, are expected to receive below-average rainfall of 150mm to 200mm, while other areas are expected to receive average rainfall of 200mm to 400mm.
NREB added that thunderstorms and heavy rain were expected to decrease during the southwest monsoon period from mid May to September, and most states would experience a greater number of days without rain.
“The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) expects the southwest monsoon period to have a huge effect on the country’s weather conditions in May.
“We advise the public to take extra measures such as drinking plenty of water, wearing a face mask and avoiding outdoor activities.”
NREB also warned the public to avoid unnecessary open burning activities, which could affect weather conditions and result in air pollution and haze.
“Those convicted of committing open burning can be prosecuted under the provisions of Section 30(1)(a) and Section 30(2) of the Sarawak Natural Resources and Environment Ordinance (Amendment 2019).
“If found guilty, offenders may be fined, not exceeding RM100,000 or imprisoned for five years, or both.”
The public are also requested to cooperate in extinguishing small fires and report cases of open burning to the nearest NREB office or send a WhatsApp message to the NREB Hotline at 013-7595866 or 082-319543.
The confidentiality of the report is also guaranteed under Section 38 of the Ordinance under Protection of Whistle-blowers.
Meanwhile, NREB also reported that the IPU trend in Sarawak throughout the period from January to April 16 was in the good to moderate range; and no unhealthy IPU readings were recorded.
NREB added that the Asean Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) reported for the same period that a total of 22 hotspots were detected in Sarawak, namely seven in January, one in February, four in March and 10 in April; while a total of 182 hotspots were detected in Kalimantan, namely 28 in January, 45 in February, 21 in March and 88 in April.
Various measures have been taken by NREB, including field patrols, stopping the issuance of controlled burning permits as well issuing notices prohibiting burning to all project developers.
NREB also organised burning ban awareness programmes with other agencies to ensure air quality is maintained.
