Sarawak: River transport users in Sarawak have been advised to plan their journeys carefully and exercise greater vigilance amid the current drought and haze conditions to avoid untoward incidents. Sarawak Rivers Board (LSS) chairman Dr. Safiee Ahmad said the drought had caused river levels to fall, making navigation channels shallower and narrower, while haze had reduced visibility.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr. Safiee emphasized that conditions become more challenging when haze causes limited visibility, especially at night. He advised all river transport users to plan their journeys as best as possible and, if possible, avoid traveling at night. Additionally, he recommended reducing the speed of boats or vessels, as impaired visibility and falling river water levels due to the drought and lack of rain in upstream areas could pose dangers to other river users.

Dr. Safiee, who is also the Daro state assemblyman, stated that LSS continuously monitored river conditions and carried out enforcement through its enforcement divisions at regional offices throughout Sarawak. He noted that river transport users could also obtain the latest information on river water levels and advisory services from regional LSS offices to help them plan safe journeys.

A Bernama survey yesterday afternoon and today found thick haze blanketing the Rajang River, Malaysia's longest river, as well as the Igan River, after API readings rose to unhealthy levels.