Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim took to social media today (7 September) to share an official press statement from the Prime Minister’s Office regarding the latest environmental emergency updates in East Malaysia.
His Majesty the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim has officially consented to the termination of the emergency declaration across the entire Serian Division in Sarawak, which was previously declared due to the severe haze situation affecting the area.
Air Pollution Index improves, no longer hazardous
According to the statement, it was granted after taking into consideration advice from the Prime Minister, the views of the Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Openg, as well as detailed reports and assessments provided by relevant government agencies.
The decision comes following improvements in air quality across the affected areas. Recent environmental monitoring has shown that Air Pollution Index (API) readings in the Serian Division have steadily declined and are no longer at hazardous levels.
Air quality still ‘very unhealthy’ in parts of Sarawak
However, despite the formal revocation of the emergency declaration, authorities have stressed that haze conditions in Sarawak have not completely cleared.
The statement also said that API readings in several areas, particularly within Serian and Samarahan, are still at ‘very unhealthy’ levels.
Both the Federal Government and the Sarawak State Government will therefore continue to closely monitor the atmospheric situation and track any further changes in air quality. Authorities are expected to remain prepared to take further measures if conditions deteriorate again.
