Attacks On Smoke And Hot Weather Fog, Malaysian Minister Of Health Urges Residents To Close Stay Window At Home

Illustration of smog fog in China (Photo: Photholgic/Unsplash)

JAKARTA - Given the hot weather and smog that simultaneously affected the country, Malaysian Health Minister Zaliha Mustafa has advised the public to limit their time outside the home and cover themselves. In addition, residents are also asked to limit severe physical activity during the summer and foggy because it can increase the risk of disease. "Currently, our country is being hit by hot weather, affecting air quality and environmental temperatures in several areas," he said in a statement issued quoted from thenewsasia channel, Wednesday, April 19. The reading of the air pollution index (API) above 100 is considered unhealthy, while the level above 200 is considered very unhealthy. The reading of more than 300 is usually considered dangerous. At 16.00 p.m. today, 68 regions in the country that have air index gauge stations are reported to have moderate readings between 51 and 100. Local media, citing the API reading on Tuesday evening, previously reported that 11 locations were experiencing unhealthy air quality. However, on Wednesday, no location was in the range of unhealthy air quality. Dr. Zaliha advised the public to close their windows to prevent fog particles from entering their homes or buildings and to avoid smoking-like activities that can increase indoor air pollution. The Minister of Health also advised the public to choose the mode of internal air circulation when using air conditioning while driving and drinking water at least eight glasses a day to maintain the hydration level of the body. Dr. Zaliha also appealed to the public to shower frequently to cool themselves and avoid wearing thick, tight, and dark clothes to speed up the process of losing heat from the body. "If possible, use air conditioning and air filters at home to filter fine particles and prevent the entry of polluted air from outside," he said. Last Saturday, Minister of Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said the smog was caused by peatland fires and open fires in several areas in the country.

"Spic ash does not only occur in Malaysia but in countries in the ASEAN region (Central Asian Nations Association)," he was quoted as saying by Bernama.