• Today: September 4, 2026

PSI improves in Brunei-Muara but Belait slips into unhealthy range

Air quality remained at unhealthy levels in three districts at 2pm on Thursday, although conditions showed some improvement compared to readings recorded three hours earlier.

The Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation (JASTRe) recorded Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) readings of 108 in Brunei-Muara, 108 in Belait and 103 in Temburong at 2pm. Tutong recorded a moderate reading of 97. 

The latest figures showed mixed changes from 11am, when Brunei-Muara registered the country’s highest reading at 123, followed by Tutong at 112 and Temburong at 103 – all within the unhealthy range. Belait was moderate at 99. 

Brunei-Muara therefore improved by 15 points between 11am and 2pm, while Tutong dropped by 15 points to return to the moderate range.

Conditions in Temburong remained unchanged at 103, while Belait’s reading rose from 99 to 108, pushing the district from moderate to unhealthy.

A PSI reading of 51 to 100 is classified as moderate, while readings between 101 and 200 are considered unhealthy. Readings of 201 to 300 are very unhealthy and those above 300 are hazardous. 

JASTRe said air quality monitoring has been enhanced since September 1 to incorporate PM2.5 concentrations into PSI reporting. PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter measuring less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter, which can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream. 

PSI updates are being issued five times daily – at 7am, 9am, 11am, 2pm and 4pm – throughout the hazy period. 

The Ministry of Health advised the public to reduce strenuous or prolonged outdoor activities and unnecessary exposure to haze when PSI readings are in the unhealthy range.

Children, older persons and pregnant women should restrict strenuous or prolonged outdoor activities, while those with existing heart or respiratory conditions are advised to avoid such activities. Anyone experiencing persistent or worsening symptoms, including coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest discomfort or difficulty breathing, should seek medical attention. 

The public is also reminded to refrain from open burning or other activities that could worsen haze conditions during the dry period. Bush and forest fires should be reported immediately to the Fire and Rescue Department through emergency line 995. 

Complaints regarding open burning and requests for health information can be directed to Darussalam Line 123.

FILE PHOTO – Hazy conditions across Brunei-Muara District on September 1. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI

 

SOURCE/AUTHOR : BORNEO BULLETIN

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