Haze-protective self-care behaviours in Sarawak, Malaysia: a state-representative cross-sectional study

Transboundary haze pollution continues to pose significant health risks across Southeast Asia, prompting the ASEAN Secretariat to implement a strategic roadmap to achieve a haze-free region by 2030.

Health Impacts of Wildfire Smoke

Research indicates that exposure to wildfire smoke and haze leads to severe health complications. Studies have found a direct association between PM₁₀ levels and increased respiratory disease admissions in Peninsular Malaysia.

Beyond respiratory issues, ambient particulate matter during Southeast Asian haze episodes has been linked to outbreaks of acute conjunctivitis. The health effects are further exacerbated by the atmospheric emissions from tropical peatland fires, particularly in equatorial Asia.

Regional Air Quality Alerts in Malaysia

Malaysia has faced episodic haze driven by El Niño, affecting Borneo and the southern Malaysian Peninsula. In late 2023, air quality readings in Sarawak reached unhealthy levels, specifically in the areas of Sri Aman, Samarahan, and Serian.

In response to these unhealthy readings, the Department of Environment (DOE) activated action plans to manage the air quality crisis. Residents can monitor current levels through the Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) at eqms.doe.gov.my/APIMS.

Policy and Prevention Frameworks

To combat the recurring crisis, the ASEAN Secretariat has established the Second Roadmap for ASEAN Cooperation on Transboundary Haze Pollution, spanning 2023 to 2030. This initiative focuses on regional cooperation to mitigate the catastrophic impacts seen in previous events, such as the 2019 Indonesian peatland fires.

Global health standards are provided by the World Health Organization (WHO), which maintains air quality guidelines for PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ to help nations reduce exposure risks. These guidelines serve as a benchmark for national health advisories, including workplace guidance issued by the Ministry of Health Malaysia.

Current efforts are now shifting toward strengthening community resilience and improving risk communication to ensure populations can better protect themselves during haze episodes.