KUCHING: A total of 77 fire hotspots were detected in Sarawak between August 1 and 15, with 36 hotspots – the highest number – recorded on Aug 1, Deputy Minister of Energy and Environment Sustainability Dr Hazland Abang Hipni said.
No hotspots, however, were detected from August 13 to 15.
“The Asean Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) reported that from January to July 2023, there were 195 hotspots in Sarawak, while 2,820 hotspots were detected in Kalimantan, Indonesia,” he said in a statement today.
He said the air pollution index (API) trend in Sarawak throughout January to August 16 was in good condition and no unhealthy API readings were recorded.
“The Natural Resources and Environmental Board (NREB) has taken various steps, which include activating haze operation room, ceasing the release of control open burning permit, and revoking some of the permits.
“NREB has also issued a prohibition notice of open burning to all project developers, in addition to organising open burning prohibition awareness programmes with other agencies to ensure the air quality is maintained,” he said.
Dr Hazland said the NREB and the Department of Environment Sarawak are currently are monitoring to ensure open burning activities are no held.
“The public are advised to take a few steps during this hot and weather period, including drinking enough water and avoiding outdoor activities and wearing masks by the high risks groups.
“I would also like to remind everyone to not conduct open burning at the moment, as those who are doing it will be charged under the Section 30(1)(a) and Section 30(2) Natural Resources and Environment Ordinance.
“If found guilty, the person can be fined not more than RM100,000 or five years in prison or both,” he warned.
He urged the public to cooperate by reporting cases of open burning to 082-319 543 or nearby NREB offices.
