KUALA LUMPUR – Sarawak is facing a escalating air quality crisis as six districts plunged into the hazardous zone this morning, led by Serian where the Air Pollutant Index (API) spiked to a dangerous 408.
Data from the Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) as of 8 am reveals a alarming spread of toxic smog across the state, with major population centers severely affected:
Hazardous (Above 300): Serian (408), Kuching (407), Samarahan (372), Sri Aman (361), Sarikei (333), and Sibu (309).
Very Unhealthy (201–300): Mukah (234), Bintulu (232), and Samalaju (225).
Unhealthy (101–200): Nine locations, including Miri Industrial Training Institute (187), Miri (180), Kapit (178), Labuan (167), Limbang (166), alongside Kimanis and Keningau in Sabah (both 156), Tawau (132), and Johan Setia, Selangor (123).
“API readings above 300 are classified as hazardous to public health, requiring immediate precaution and reduced exposure.”
Nationwide, 48 other locations currently report moderate air quality (API 51–100). Authorities are monitoring the situation closely as wind patterns and dry conditions threaten to sustain high pollution levels across East Malaysia. – Sept 1, 2026