Malaysia has declared a state of emergency in the Serian district of Sarawak after air quality readings hit hazardous levels, marking one of the most severe haze episodes in the region in recent years. The move underscores the recurring crisis that plagues parts of Borneo, where transboundary smoke from land-clearing fires — often linked to illegal burning for palm oil and timber operations in neighboring Indonesia — can reduce visibility to near zero and pose serious health risks to residents. Authorities are expected to coordinate with Indonesian officials to address the source of the fires, while local hospitals brace for a surge in respiratory cases. The declaration highlights the ongoing diplomatic and environmental tensions between the two nations over a problem that has flared up almost every dry season for decades.
Country implements state of emergency in Sarawak's Serian district after air pollution reaches 'hazardous' levels.
