Sarawak Haze: Simple Changes to Your Daily Routine
You may have noticed that the air has become hazier in recent weeks. Haze is a recurring issue in parts of Borneo, particularly during hot and dry periods, and it can affect daily life, outdoor activities and overall air quality.
Why Does Haze Occur in Sarawak?
Haze is mainly caused by smoke and fine particles released from fires. These can come from local forest and land fires, rubbish or open burning, as well as fires in neighbouring regions. During the current dry season, vegetation and land can become much easier to burn.
Sarawak is also affected by the South-West Monsoon, which can bring winds from the southwest and carry smoke across borders. This means that haze affecting Sarawak does not necessarily come from fires within the state. Recent reports have highlighted both local fires and transboundary haze as contributing factors to the current poor air quality.
Weather conditions can make the situation worse. Hot and dry conditions allow fires to spread more easily, while limited rainfall makes it harder for smoke and pollutants to clear. In August 2026, haze has already affected several areas of Sarawak, with some locations recording unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings.
How Can Haze Affect You?
Haze contains fine particles that can enter the respiratory system. Short-term exposure may cause coughing, sore throat, runny nose, eye irritation and breathing discomfort. People with existing respiratory or heart conditions, as well as children and older adults, should take extra precautions.
Even if you normally enjoy outdoor activities such as walking, jogging or golfing, it is better to reduce prolonged outdoor exercise when the API level becomes unhealthy.
For reference, the API scale runs as follows: 0–50 is Good, 51–100 is Moderate, 101–200 is Unhealthy, 201–300 is Very Unhealthy, and above 300 is Hazardous, with readings updated hourly from 68 monitoring stations nationwide.
Practical Tips for S-MM2H Residents
1. Check the API regularly
Air quality can vary considerably between cities and even from one day to another. Check the latest API reading for your area before planning outdoor activities.
2. Limit outdoor activities during unhealthy conditions
Consider postponing jogging, hiking, gardening and other strenuous outdoor activities when the air quality deteriorates.
3. Wear a suitable mask outdoors
If you need to go outside during haze, an N95 or equivalent respirator can provide better protection against fine particles than an ordinary mask.
4. Keep your home comfortable and clean
Keep windows and doors closed when outdoor air quality is poor. If available, an air purifier can help improve indoor air quality. Avoid adding indoor pollution, such as cigarette smoke.
5. Stay hydrated
Drink sufficient water, especially during hot and dry weather.
6. Pay attention to symptoms
If you experience persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, chest discomfort, severe eye irritation or worsening of an existing condition, seek medical advice promptly.
Enjoy Sarawak — But Stay Informed
Haze is generally a seasonal environmental issue rather than a reason to avoid living in Sarawak. For S-MM2H residents, the key is to stay informed and adjust your daily routine when air quality deteriorates.
By checking the API, reducing unnecessary outdoor exposure and taking simple precautions, you can continue to enjoy life in Sarawak while protecting your health during the haze season.
Air quality conditions can change quickly. Residents should refer to the latest official API information and health advisories from Malaysian authorities. For the latest Air Pollutant Index (API) readings and haze updates, please refer to the https://eqms.doe.gov.my/APIMS/main or follow the latest updates from local news sources.
Comments