Malaysia Revokes Sarawak Haze Emergency Amidst Ongoing Pollution

The Malaysian government has formally terminated the state-level emergency declaration in Sarawak, specifically in the Serian district, following a decline in air pollution levels. This decision, endorsed by the monarchy, was made after the Air Pollution Index (API) in the area had previously exceeded 500, a threshold indicating hazardous conditions.

Transboundary Haze Persists

Despite the official revocation, authorities confirm that air quality remains at "very unhealthy" levels across several districts, including Serian and Samarahan. Officials attribute the persistent pollution to transboundary smoke originating from extensive forest fires in Indonesia's Kalimantan region.

Public Health Directives Federal and state agencies continue to implement active Federal and state agencies continue to implement active monitoring protocols to mitigate public health risks. Residents in affected areas are advised to limit outdoor activities and adhere to official health directives until a sustained improvement in air quality is observed. Emergency Thresholds Defined The emergency declaration in Serian had been activated when API figures surpassed the critical threshold of 500 on Friday, peaking at 519. Under Malaysian guidelines, API levels exceeding 300 are classified as hazardous, while readings above 500 trigger a local emergency declaration.