DoE Update On Unhealthy Haze Levels In Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur has been experiencing unhealthy air quality for the past week due to haze, prompting the Department of Environment (DoE) to implement measures outlined in the National Haze Action Plan.

In a statement to the media, he highlighted that the current government actions taken by each agency is based on warning levels set on the air quality. He also added that the National Haze Action Plan is due for an update to ensure timely response from government agencies. The last update to the plan was in 2018.

According to Malaysia’s Air Pollution Index Management System (APIMS), currently four air quality management stations in Malaysia have recorded unhealthy air quality.

These four stations are; Shah Alam, Kuala Lumpur, Nilai and Seremban.

Malaysia’s top environment official has stated that the haze is caused by forest fires from Indonesia, a claim that Indonesia has denied.

Previously. Malaysia’s Ministry of Health (MOH) had also issued a health advisory for workplaces during the haze season.

In the health advisory, MOH stated that short term exposure to haze can cause several health issues, such as throat irritation, headache, and runny nose.

Long term exposure to the haze can even lead to more severe complications and health issues, such as reducing life expectancy and birth defects.

Which is why MOH underlined some general measures at the workplace during haze season, which includes;

• Minimising outdoor activities.
• Closing all windows, doors and any openings that may allow haze to enter the workplace.
• Ensuring maintenance of the air conditioner with regular cleaning and servicing.
• Using an air purifier to keep the particulate levels low.
• Providing health education regarding Haze to the employees
• Providing respirators for employees who have to work outdoors
• Conducting Fit Testing for respirators
• Reassigning job tasks

The health advisory also outlined some general measures that workers can take, which is;

• Inform the management if you are suffering from any heart or respiratory diseases
• Take your medication regularly if suffering from an existing disease, especially heart disease and respiratory diseases.
• Drink more water and increase the intake of fresh fruits and vegetables.
• This helps the body to flush out toxins absorbed through the skin and lungs, and improve the immune system.
• Cut down on alcohol and coffee. These promote fluid and nutrient loss from the body.
• Avoid smoking
• Wear a respirator when you go outside.