Malaysia lifted the emergency declaration in Serian district, Sarawak, on Sept 7 after air quality improved below hazardous levels, with the Air Pollutant Index (API) dropping to between 211 and 222 from previous readings above 500 [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. The emergency had been declared on Sept 4 when haze from Indonesian forest fires pushed the API in Serian to hazardous levels of around 519-521, prompting health concerns [1, 3].
The King of Malaysia, Sultan Ibrahim, gave consent to lift the emergency after receiving advice from Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Openg, and relevant agency reports [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. Although the haze situation has improved, it has not fully subsided. Areas such as Samarahan district recorded very unhealthy air quality on Sept 7 morning with an API of 226 [2, 4, 5]. Nationwide, 40 areas reported unhealthy air, 24 had moderate air quality, and only 2 recorded good air quality as of the same morning [2, 4, 5].
The Prime Minister’s Office urged residents in affected regions to limit outdoor activities and strictly follow instructions from authorities. Officials stated, "The Federal government and the Sarawak state government will continue to closely monitor the situation, and residents in affected areas are advised to limit outdoor activities and to always comply with instructions from the authorities" [1]. Another statement added, "Residents in affected areas are strongly advised to limit outdoor activities and strictly adhere to directives issued by the authorities" [3].
The emergency declaration had been imposed on Sept 4 to manage the hazardous haze conditions [1, 3]. The decision to lift it came after air quality improved well below the hazardous threshold of 300. Authorities continue monitoring the situation closely to ensure public safety.
Residents are advised to remain vigilant and follow all health and safety guidance in areas still experiencing very unhealthy air quality.
