Sabah: 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, stated that haze had begun to envelop areas such as Kota Kinabalu and Kimanis due to forest fires in the neighboring region.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, winds from southern and central Borneo are carrying thick smoke toward northern Borneo, impacting visibility and air quality in Sabah. The hot and dry weather conditions further increase the risk of fires. Mohd Pisar emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to prevent fires, protect lives, property, and the environment, noting that open burning is an offense.

A check on the Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) this afternoon revealed that air quality in Sabah remained at a moderate level. Kota Kinabalu recorded the highest reading at 83, followed by Politeknik Kota Kinabalu at 81, and Kimanis at 76. Despite the moderate API readings, Mohd Pisar advised high-risk groups, including asthma patients, children, and the elderly, to take extra precautions.

He also highlighted that Keningau and Pitas had experienced seven consecutive days without rain up to August 10, meeting the criteria for an open-burning ban. This ban encompasses the burning of rubbish, dry leaves, garden waste, construction waste, and other materials that could exacerbate the haze.

Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities between 11 am and 4 pm, stay hydrated, wear face masks in hazy areas, and regularly check electrical wiring to prevent fires. Additionally, they should avoid discarding cigarette butts carelessly and promptly report any suspicious activities or fires to JBPM via 999.