Kathmandu— Air quality in Malaysia's Sarawak state has significantly deteriorated as smoke from Indonesian forest fires drives up respiratory complaints and forces residents to seek protective masks. Six districts, including the capital city of Kuching, have recorded Air Pollutant Index (API) readings above hazardous levels, with Kuching hitting 407 on Tuesday.

Impact on Daily Life

The worsening air quality has forced schools in Kuching to remain closed for two weeks. Resident Ivana Mason, 37, reported that she visited five pharmacies but found them sold out of haze-rated masks, with only ineffective medical masks available. The haze has also affected her health, causing a sore throat and aggravating her asthma.

Health Concerns

Md Khairulanwar Asri, an occupational therapist at Sarawak Heart Centre, warned that poor air quality could exacerbate existing heart or respiratory conditions. He noted that people exposed to the haze may experience coughing, throat and eye irritation, shortness of breath, and reduced endurance for daily activities.

Supply Shortages

Local pharmacist Dawi Bakri reported a significant increase in demand for masks, making it difficult to maintain sufficient stocks. 'All types of masks have been selling faster than usual,' he said. The haze has also led to cloud-seeding operations being considered by Sarawak authorities if weather conditions permit.

Malaysia's health ministry has reported rising cases of asthma and conjunctivitis nationwide as air quality continues to worsen.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.