KUCHING: From September 1 to 5, a total of 20 hotspots were detected in Sarawak and 1,825 hotspots in Kalimantan, Indonesia.
Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB), which revealed this, said the country was currently in the Southwest Monsoon phase, which began on May 17 and was expected to end this month.
During the Southwest Monsoon period, the region, it said, would consistently receive wind from the southwest direction.
“This situation has the potential to cause cross-border haze and a decline in ambient air quality in the Sarawak region.
“Various measures have been taken by the NREB, including activating the haze operations room, conducting field patrols, halting the issuance of controlled burning permits, issuing open burning prohibition notices to all project developers, and organising awareness programmes on the prohibition of open burning with other agencies to ensure air quality is maintained.
“However, all relevant government agencies and the public are encouraged to take shared responsibility in addressing the causes and reducing the risks of haze,” NREB said in its statement.
The board also advised the public to take several precautions during hot and dry weather, including drinking sufficient water, reducing outdoor activities, and wearing N95 respiratory masks for those involved in outdoor activities, especially the high-risk groups.
It also reminded the public not to engage in open burning activities, which could lead to air pollution, especially during the hot season.
“Those found guilty of open burning can be prosecuted under Section 30(1)(a) and Section 30(2) of the state’s Natural Resources and Environment Ordinance (Amendment 2019).
“Upon conviction, they can be fined up to RM100,000.00 or imprisoned for 5 years, or both,” warned NREB.
The board also urged the public to cooperate in extinguishing small fires and reporting open burning cases to its nearest office.
“Confidentiality of the report is guaranteed under Section 38 of the Whistleblower Protection Act of the same Ordinance,” it said.
