• Today: October 31, 2026

Air quality shifts between good and moderate

Brunei-Muara and Belait districts experienced moderate air quality at different times yesterday, while Temburong and Tutong districts maintained good air quality throughout the day.

At 7am, Belait District was the only district recording moderate air quality, with Brunei-Muara, Temburong and Tutong districts reporting good air quality.

By 9am, moderate air quality had shifted to Brunei-Muara District, while the remaining three districts recorded good air quality.

At 11am, Belait District returned to moderate air quality, with the other districts continuing to experience good air quality.

The same conditions persisted at 2pm, with Belait District remaining at moderate air quality while Brunei-Muara, Temburong and Tutong districts recorded good air quality.

At 4pm, moderate air quality shifted back to Brunei-Muara District, which recorded a Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) reading of 51.

Belait District recorded a PSI reading of 38, while Temburong District registered 45. Tutong District also maintained good air quality. The public, particularly children, pregnant women and the elderly, are advised to reduce strenuous or prolonged outdoor activities when air quality is moderate.

The Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation (JASTRe) under the Ministry of Development continues to step up air quality monitoring during the hazy period.

Air quality reporting has also been enhanced with the inclusion of PM2.5 concentrations in the PSI, which took effect on September 1.

PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter measuring less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter.

According to the World Health Organization, these particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting cardiovascular and respiratory health. JASTRe will continue to monitor air quality nationwide and issue PSI updates daily during the hazy period, at 7am, 9am, 11am, 2pm and 4pm. PSI readings below 50 indicate good air quality, while readings from 51 to 100 are classified as moderate. Readings between 101 and 200 indicate unhealthy air quality, 201 to 300 very unhealthy, and above 300 hazardous conditions.

The Ministry of Health (MoH) has advised the public to take precautions when PSI readings reach the unhealthy level by reducing strenuous or prolonged outdoor activities and minimising unnecessary exposure to haze.

Children, older persons and pregnant women are advised to limit strenuous or prolonged outdoor activities, while individuals with existing heart or respiratory conditions should avoid such activities.

Those experiencing persistent or worsening symptoms, including coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest discomfort or difficulty in breathing, are advised to seek medical attention at the nearest health centre or healthcare facility.

The public is also reminded to contact the Fire and Rescue Department at 995 immediately in the event of bush or forest fires.

Members of the public are urged to refrain from open burning and other activities that could worsen haze conditions during the dry period.

Further information on PSI readings is available through JASTRe and its official Instagram account, while health information and advice can be obtained through the MoH and its official Instagram page. – Lyna Mohamad

A view of Brunei skies. PHOTO: JAMES KON


SOURCE/AUTHOR : BORNEO BULLETIN/LYNA MOHAMAD

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