The ongoing haze in Sabah is not only affecting public health but also the economy, including tourism, said Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Environment Datuk Masidi Manjun. People are advised to take precaution as many are flocking to pharmacies seeking for face mask. While the air travel is at definite risk of having a slowdown affecting tourism business.
“The last worst haze in 1997 had caused a significant drop in the number of incoming tourists.
“And even today, the haze situation in the Peninsula is reaching dangerous levels, causing very unhealthy environment and unsafe visibility,” he said.
“While the situation here in Sabah is still in the moderate category, I hope it doesn’t get worse, because we cannot afford to have another round of haze that is going to affect not only the health of the people but also the main industries, including the tourism industry. The ministry is really serious and concerned about this,” said Masidi.
"Tourists, mainly the Chinese tourists, love Sabah for its fresh air and beautiful outdoors. The choking haze and limited visibility does not only put our tourists at risk of health problems, but also dampen their mood to fully enjoy Sabah's beautiful nature," added Masidi.
He hoped Asean leaders would come together to find a solution.
“We all know where the haze comes from. The only solution would be continuous dialogues between Asean countries that are involved and affected.”
Meanwhile, Masidi advised the public to cooperate in helping to improve the situation by not carrying out any unnecessary burning activities.
The latest API reading in Kota Kinabalu was 83 as at 5pm on Sunday, Keningau 77, and Sandakan 46.
The Air Pollutant Index classifies readings from 0 to 50 as good, 51 to 100 as moderate, 101 to 200 as unhealthy, 201 to 300 as very unhealthy and readings of 301 and above as dangerous.
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