• Today: November 2, 2026

Haze eases as PSI readings return to good

Air quality conditions across Brunei Darussalam remained generally good throughout yesterday. Belait District experienced moderate air quality during the morning, while Brunei-Muara District recorded moderate conditions in the afternoon.

At 7am, Brunei-Muara, Temburong and Tutong districts recorded good air quality, while Belait District experienced moderate air quality with a Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) reading of 55 and the condition remained the same at 9am. Belait District remained under moderate air quality conditions, with its PSI reading increasing to 68.

The other three districts maintained good air quality.

By 11am, all four districts recorded good air quality with Belait District registering the lowest PSI reading at 15. At 2pm, Brunei-Muara District experienced moderate air quality, with a PSI reading of 58, while Belait, Tutong and Temburong districts continued to record good air quality.

At 4pm, all four districts had returned to good air quality, indicating an overall improvement in atmospheric conditions. Tutong District registered the lowest PSI reading at 10.

The public, particularly children, pregnant women and the elderly, are advised to reduce strenuous or prolonged outdoor activities when air quality is moderate.

A view of Brunei skies yesterday. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTOR

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 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 a health centre or healthcare facility. Members of the public are urged to refrain from open burning and other activities that could worsen haze conditions during the dry period.

 

 

SOURCE/AUTHOR : BORNEO BULLETIN/Lyna Mohamad

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