Malaysia lifts emergency declaration in Sarawak district as fire haze eases, though air quality still poor
Malaysia has lifted the state of emergency in the Serian district of Sarawak as air quality levels improved following hazardous haze caused by Indonesian forest fires. While the emergency status is over, authorities warn that air quality remains unhealthy and advise residents to limit outdoor activities.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the ongoing regional challenge of transboundary haze in Southeast Asia and the health risks posed by environmental pollution.
Malaysian King Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar gave his consent to end the state of emergency in Serian based on advice from Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Openg.
Heavy haze blankets Serian, Sarawak, on Sep 3, 2026. (Photo: CNA/Fadza Ishak)
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has lifted an emergency declaration due to fire haze in the district of Serian in Sarawak state after air quality readings dropped back below hazardous levels, but health risks remain, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said on Monday (Sep 7).
Malaysia had declared the emergency on Friday after thick haze caused by fires in the Indonesian part of Borneo island pushed air pollution up to hazardous levels. Sarawak has been heavily affected by fires in Indonesia's Kalimantan, with the haze forcing school closures in some parts of the state.
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