Worsening Haze Warrants Emergency Measures

The Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) and Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM) urge the respective State Governments to take immediate measures to close all schools due to the worsening haze and where the Air Pollutant Index (API) records high unhealthy levels.

At 11am this morning, Banting in Selangor recorded the highest API level at 175. Even at an API level of 116 in USM, Penang, we have received many complaints from the public that the air quality is bad.  It is not healthy for children, senior citizens and those who are sick to be outdoors. Besides dust and fine particles, the air quality is affected by hazardous substances, which if inhaled can cause difficulties particularly to those having respiratory problems.

Schools should remain closed until further notice and children should not be allowed to go outdoors as it may be detrimental to their health. Others should be cautious and use face masks. Measures should be taken to declare a haze emergency in areas where the API records hazardous and high unhealthy levels.

We are very concerned about the recurrence of the haze problem engulfing Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore which is a man-made problem that can be averted. The Malaysian government with ASEAN should take steps to stop indiscriminate practices that exacerbate air pollution and cause the haze.

Press Release,  14 September 2015