The haze has returned to Malaysia, with air quality deteriorating in parts of the country, Malay Mail reports. As of 11 am, three areas in Sarawak recorded unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings, according to the Department of Environment (DOE), as reported by Bernama.
The return of the haze is linked to Indonesia’s wildfire season, which has surged and is spreading smoke into Malaysia, according to Mongabay. The Borneo Post reported that air quality in Lundu improved, with its API dropping by 40 points, while other areas across Sarawak remained at moderate levels.
Despite the unhealthy readings, schools in Serian will operate as usual on August 17, according to The Star. The decision suggests authorities are monitoring the situation closely but have not yet deemed it severe enough to disrupt education in that district.
The haze phenomenon is a recurring issue for Malaysia, often driven by seasonal burning and forest fires in neighboring Indonesia. The current episode appears to be following a similar pattern, with prevailing winds carrying smoke across the border and affecting air quality in Malaysian states, particularly those on Borneo island.
For residents in affected areas, the key concern is how long the unhealthy conditions will persist. Weather patterns and the intensity of the Indonesian fires will likely determine whether the haze spreads further or begins to dissipate in the coming days.
Authorities are expected to continue monitoring API levels and may issue further guidance if conditions worsen.
