King declares emergency in Serian over hazardous haze

King declares emergency in Serian over hazardous haze



Hazy conditions along Jalan Serian-Sri Aman, September 4, 2026. Serian recorded an Air Pollutant Index (API) reading of 518 as of 10am today, putting it in the hazardous category due to transboundary haze. — Bernama pic


Summary

• Sultan Ibrahim has declared an emergency in Sarawak's Serian Division due to hazardous haze conditions.
• The decision followed advice from Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Openg.
• The government will implement effective measures and monitor air quality to protect residents' health.

By Malay Mail
First Published: Friday, 04 Sep 2026 5:06 PM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 4 — His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, has approved the declaration of an emergency throughout the Serian Division in Sarawak following worsening haze that has reached levels hazardous to public health and safety.

The Prime Minister’s Office said the decision was made after taking into account the advice of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg and relevant agencies on air quality in the affected area.

The declaration will allow more effective measures to be taken to protect the health and welfare of residents affected by the hazardous air pollution.

“The government will continue to monitor developments from time to time and ensure all necessary measures are implemented immediately, including mitigation efforts as well as the dissemination of information and health advice to the public,” the Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement today.