KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 11 — Haze conditions in Sarawak have worsened, with the number of areas recording unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings rising to 11 as of 6am today.

Based on information displayed on the Department of Environment’s (DOE) Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) website, the Serian IPD monitoring station recorded the sharpest increase, with an API reading of 189, approaching the very unhealthy level, Harian Metro reported. 

Besides Serian, 10 other monitoring stations also recorded API readings in the unhealthy category.

The areas were Samarahan (171), Kuching (166), Bintulu (159), Samalaju (156) and Mukah (155).

Ibu also recorded an API reading of 154, followed by Sarikei (153), Sri Aman (152), Miri (135) and the Miri Industrial Training Institute (ILP) (111).

Two other stations recorded moderate readings but were edging closer to the unhealthy level, namely Limbang (81) and Kapit (73).

The development indicates that air quality in several parts of Sarawak is deteriorating, particularly with readings increasing at several key locations.

API readings between 101 and 200 are categorised as unhealthy, while readings between 201 and 300 are considered very unhealthy.

Such conditions can affect health, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children, senior citizens and those with respiratory problems or chronic illnesses.

The public is therefore advised to monitor the latest air quality developments and reduce outdoor activities if haze conditions worsen.