Malaysians choke as haze worsens
Summary
Air quality in Malaysia’s Sarawak state has worsened as smoke from Indonesian forest fires pushes up hazardous pollution readings and drives a rise in respiratory complaints. Schools in Kuching remain shut, mask supplies are running low, and health officials are warning of greater risks for people with asthma, heart problems and other pre-existing conditions.
Key Points
- Six districts in Sarawak recorded hazardous Air Pollutant Index readings, with Kuching reaching 407.
- Smoke from Indonesian forest and land fires is drifting across the border and worsening the haze in Malaysia.
- Residents say protective mask supplies are running low as demand surges and air quality causes asthma and throat and eye irritation.
- Sarawak authorities may begin cloud-seeding operations as early as Thursday if weather conditions allow.
