Kuala lumpur: The Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) has called on mosques and surau in the Federal Territories to hold solat hajat (special prayers), seeking relief from the haze and protection for residents affected by worsening air pollution in Serian, Sarawak. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan emphasized the department's respect for His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia's consent to declare a haze emergency in the Serian Division following air pollution levels that posed a threat to public health and safety.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Zulkifli Hasan has urged religious agencies and the public to support mitigation measures and welfare assistance for affected residents, aligning with the principles of preserving life and mutual assistance. He stressed the importance of Islamic brotherhood and humanitarian values being translated into concrete action through the swift delivery of assistance and full compliance with safety directives issued by the authorities. He expressed hope that this trial would strengthen the community's unity and trust in divine support, underscoring that efforts to save lives are a noble religious duty.
Earlier, Sultan Ibrahim consented to the declaration of a haze emergency throughout the Serian Division after air pollution levels reached a stage deemed hazardous to public health and safety. The Prime Minister's Office stated that the decision was made after considering advice from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, and relevant agencies on air quality in the area.
As of 4 pm today, Serian's air quality remained at the hazardous level, with the Air Pollutant Index (API) reading at the Serian District Police Headquarters monitoring station reaching 514. The Malaysian Air Pollutant Index Management System website reported that Kuching was also at the hazardous level with a reading of 313, while Samarahan and Sri Aman were at the very unhealthy level, recording 288 and 239 respectively.