Malaysia may be recovering from the coronavirus pandemic, but it looks like we’ll have to face another problem on the horizon soon, from the ever-occurring haze.
The Met Department has said that there’s a chance the haze may not occur this year, but that all depends on whether Indonesia can work to reduce their number of open burning cases.
Indonesia had declared a state of emergency on June 28th, after more than 700 forest fires were detected there.
The Air Pollutant Index (API) in Malaysia is currently normal, but the wind would have other ideas come August, and that would mean bad news for our country.
To add fuel to the fire, the haze would be detrimental as we continue our recovery from the coronavirus pandemic.
According to The Star, medical experts say the haze may cause further problems to those already infected with COVID-19.
High-risk groups such as children and the elderly who are COVID-19 positive will face enhanced respiratory problems if the haze occurs.
That’s why it’s imperative that we continue to follow SOPs that have been set, not only to curb the spread of the virus, but also for our own personal health.
Meanwhile, the Met Department has advised the public to drink lots of water, and of course, avoid open burning at all costs!
Stay safe, stay healthy, everyone!
by Kyle Roshen Jacob
