KUCHING, Aug 31 2026: Deputy Premier Douglas Uggah explained that haze disaster emergency will be not cover the whole state, if, for example, the air pollutant index (API) reading of Serian is more than 500 level.
As at 12noon, the API reading of Serian was 463 level while neighbouring Tebedu recorded an API reading of 409, Lubok Antu 387, Lundu 381, Kuching 343 and Samarahan 334.
Uggah said the emergency will be declared only in Serian, not the whole state.
“Therefore, the government will declare the haze disaster emergency in a particular area where the API reading is more than 500 level,” he told reporters after chairing the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) meeting today.
“We hope that there is no necessity to declare the emergency as the federal government is working with the Indonesian government to put out the forest fires in Kalimantan,” he said.
Uggah said before the disaster emergency is declared, SDMC will give advice, but the authority lies with the National Committee on Disaster Management (NADMA), not even the premier can declare the emergency.
“There is a procedure to follow when declaring the emergency. NADMA will issue guideline what can and cannot be done during the period of the haze state of emergency.
“I know this is a very controversial issue. I hope Sarawakians will understand and we also do not want to create unnecessary inconveniences but if there is a choice between health and some events, we should choose health, especially for senior citizens and venerable groups,” he added.
He reiterated that throughout the period of disaster emergency, government offices, private sector and workplaces will be required to close, except those involve in essential services.
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