KUALA LUMPUR – Natural Resources, Environment, and Climate Change Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad has assured that the current haze situation is unlikely to persist due to the constantly changing wind patterns.
Nik Nazmi said that this assurance was based on the forecast from the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) regarding the movement of transboundary haze.
The forecast was generated using prediction models known as Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory and Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service.
However, Nik Nazmi added that the ministry will opt for cloud seeding operations if the haze worsens and the air quality exceeds unhealthy levels on the air pollution index (API) for 24 hours, which is between 151 and 200.
“If the air quality worsens, we are prepared to launch the Cloud Seeding Operation under the coordination of the National Disaster Management Agency with the Royal Malaysian Air Force. However, the cloud seeding will depend on the atmospheric conditions,” he said.
The public can check the movement of the haze through MetMalaysia’s official website.
Meanwhile, MetMalaysia has upgraded its fire danger rating system and added new elements, including a seven-day forecast to monitor fire and intensity potential.
The fire danger rating system was developed to monitor forest fires and peat soil and has been used by Asean members since 2003.
In other matters, Nik Nazmi said that Asean member countries are committed to preventing open burning and avoiding haze situations through the implementation of the Second Asean Haze-Free Roadmap. The goal is to achieve a haze-free Asean by 2030.
This morning, eight areas recorded API readings at unhealthy levels, with Cheras registering the highest reading of 157 as of 12pm.
According to the Environment Department’s Air Pollutant Index Management System, five areas in Selangor had API readings above 100, including Banting (156), Klang (155), Shah Alam (153), Johan Setia (152), and Petaling Jaya (130).
In Negri Sembilan, Nilai had an API reading of 151, while Bukit Rambai in Melaka recorded 153. – October 9, 2023