KOTA KINABALU, Aug 11 — The Sabah Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has urged the public to stop open burning as transboundary haze from Kalimantan, Indonesia, has begun to affect air quality in the state.

Its director Mohd Pisar Aziz said haze had begun to cover areas including Kota Kinabalu and Kimanis following forest fires in the neighbouring region.

“Winds from southern and central Borneo are carrying thick smoke towards northern Borneo, affecting visibility and air quality in Sabah.

“Hot and dry weather also increases the risk of fires. Let us work together to prevent them, protect lives, property and the environment, as open burning is an offence,” he told Bernama today.

A check on the Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) this afternoon showed that air quality in Sabah remained at the moderate level, with Kota Kinabalu recording the highest reading at 83, followed by Politeknik Kota Kinabalu at 81 and Kimanis at 76.

Mohd Pisar said high-risk groups, including asthma patients, children and the elderly, should take extra precautions despite the moderate API readings.

He said Keningau and Pitas had also recorded seven consecutive days without rain up to August 10, meeting the criteria for an open-burning ban.

The ban covers the open burning of rubbish, dry leaves, garden waste, construction waste and other materials that could worsen the haze, he said.

The public is advised to limit outdoor activities between 11am and 4pm, stay hydrated, wear face masks in hazy areas, and regularly check electrical wiring to prevent fires.

They should also avoid discarding cigarette butts carelessly and immediately report any suspicious activities or fires to JBPM via 999. — Bernama