• Today: October 31, 2026

Air quality stays moderate nationwide amid haze

Air quality across the country remained at moderate levels yesterday, with Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) readings fluctuating throughout the day amid continued hazy conditions.

By 4pm, air quality remained moderate nationwide, with Brunei-Muara recording a PSI reading of 71, followed by Belait at 66, Tutong at 65 and Temburong at 61.

The Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation (JASTRe), Ministry of Development, stepped up monitoring during the hazy period with air quality reporting in Brunei Darussalam over the past weeks with the inclusion of PM2.5 concentrations in the PSI, which took effect on September 1, 2026.

PM2.5 refers to fine suspended particulate matter measuring less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter, as defined by the World Health Organization, where these fine particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, potentially causing adverse effects on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

JASTRe said it will continue to closely monitor air quality nationwide and issue PSI updates daily during the hazy period, at 7am, 9am, 11am, 2pm and 4pm.

PSI readings below 50 is good, 51-100 is moderate, 101-200 is unhealthy, 201-300 is very unhealthy, while above 300 is hazardous.

The Ministry of Health advised the public to take precautions when PSI readings reach the unhealthy level, and to reduce strenuous or prolonged outdoor activities and minimise unnecessary exposure to haze.

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

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

Meanwhile, the public is reminded to contact the Fire and Rescue Department at 995 in the event of bush or forest fires. The public is also urged to refrain from open burning and other activities that could worsen haze conditions during the dry period.

For complaints regarding open burning activities, or for health information and advice, the public may contact the Darussalam Hotline 123. 

File photo of the Brunei skies. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTOR

 

SOURCE/AUTHOR : BORNEO BULLETIN/LYNA MOHAMAD

Venues

BSB

Comments (0)

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!

Leave a Comment

Total visitors: 3,720,794 | Today's visitors: 20,408
Updated: 20:31:03