Its chairman, Peter Minos, said Sarawak suffers from transboundary haze from Indonesia every year, affecting public health and even the economy, Dayak Daily reported.

However, he said this episode of haze was among the worst he had ever experienced, with Serian’s air pollutant index (API) even reaching “very unhealthy” levels at 201 yesterday.

“Maybe West Kalimantan (should) pay Sarawak for the harm the haze causes us — loss of good health, loss from school closures, and loss of tourism revenue.

“It is mind-boggling that the West Kalimantan authorities seem oblivious to our suffering. Looks like they are not sensitive to our plight,” he was quoted as saying.

As of 6pm, 10 areas in the country recorded unhealthy API readings, including seven localities in Sarawak, namely Serian (179), Samarahan (176), Kuching (175), Sri Aman (163), Sarikei (158), Mukah (152), and Sibu (146).

An API reading between 101 and 200 is classified as “unhealthy” and may pose health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and those with respiratory condi

Meanwhile, the temporary closure of schools affected by haze in the Serian area has been extended until tomorrow (Friday), Bernama reported.

“This decision was made to avoid burdening school administrators, teachers, parents, and especially students in boarding schools.”