• Today: October 18, 2026

Air quality turns moderate nationwide

Air quality across the country shifted from good to moderate yesterday, with all four districts recording moderate air quality by 2pm.

At 7am, air quality was good nationwide. However, readings at 9am and 11am showed moderate air quality in Brunei-Muara District and Tutong District, while Belait and Temburong districts maintained good air quality.

By 2pm, air quality had turned moderate across all districts.

The final readings at 4pm showed Tutong District recording the highest Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) at 63, followed by Brunei-Muara District at 55, while Belait and Temburong districts both recorded 52.

The Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation (JASTRe), Ministry of Development, has enhanced air quality reporting in Brunei Darussalam by incorporating PM2.5 concentrations into the PSI reporting, effective September 1, 2026, at 2pm.

According to JASTRe, PM2.5 refers to fine suspended particulate matter with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres, as defined by the World Health Organization.

These fine particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, potentially causing adverse effects on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

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

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health (MoH) advised the public that outdoor activities may continue as usual when PSI readings are within the moderate range of 51 to 100.

However, children, pregnant women and the elderly are advised to reduce strenuous or prolonged outdoor physical activities, while individuals with heart or lung conditions should limit such activities.

Those experiencing persistent or worsening symptoms, including coughing, shortness of breath, chest discomfort or breathing difficulties, are advised to seek immediate medical attention at clinics or health centres. The public is also encouraged to refer to health advisories issued by MoH.

In view of the dry period, members of the public are reminded not to conduct open burning or engage in other activities that could worsen haze conditions.

Anyone who encounters bush or forest fires should contact the Fire and Rescue Department through its emergency line at 995.

Members of the public may also call the Darussalam Hotline 123 to lodge complaints regarding open burning or to seek health information and advice. – Lyna Mohamad

A view of 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