KUCHING, Aug 31 2026: Deputy Premier Dr Sim Kui Hian has given his assurance that the state’s health facilities are adequately prepared to face any haze-related issues.
He said current stocks of essential medicines and medical supplies, including three-ply masks, N95 masks and oxygen cylinders, are considered sufficient based on current utilisation.
“The public should not be unnecessarily alarmed, but neither should the health risks of prolonged exposure to poor air quality be underestimated,” Dr Sim, who is also the Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, said in a statement.
He said the state government, together with the state Health Department and relevant agencies, will continue to monitor the haze situation closely and strengthen the response according to the prevailing air quality and health surveillance findings.
“I also urge the public to rely on official information and health advisories, and to take appropriate preventive measures when air quality deteriorates,”he said.
He said the state government aims to protect those at high risk groups, saying that poor air quality can affect everyone, but certain groups are more vulnerable to its effects.
He said they include children and infants; older adults; pregnant women; individuals with existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, particularly asthma and chronic respiratory disease; and people who work outdoors.
“I strongly urge these groups, in particular, to take additional precautions whenever air quality deteriorates,” he said.
He said during the period of poor air quality, members of the public are advised to reduce physical exertion and postpone outdoor recreational and sporting activities, particularly when air quality is poor.
He said whenever possible, keep doors and windows closed to minimise the entry of polluted air into homes, schools and workplaces.
“If it is necessary to go outdoors, wear a well-fitting mask, preferably an N95 respirator, which provides better filtration against fine particulate matter such as PM2.5, drink adequate amounts of plain water and maintain good hydration and wash the face and hands regularly, particularly after spending time outdoors,” he said.
He also advised anyone to seek medical attention promptly if they are experiencing persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, severe eye irritation or worsening asthma symptoms.
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