KUCHING, Sept 4 — Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) is stepping up monitoring in high-risk forest areas amid the current hot, dry and hazy weather, which could heighten the risk of forest fires.
SFC general manager Abang Arabi Abang Aimran said the situation warranted close attention as the prevailing conditions could place additional pressure on forest ecosystems and wildlife.
“We conduct monitoring, particularly in peat forest areas and areas close to human activities. Field patrols are also carried out, while hotspot information and technology are used to detect early signs of fire.
“Based on past incidents, we are focusing more on monitoring Totally Protected Areas (TPAs) that have previously been affected by forest fires,” he told
Among the areas being closely monitored are Sibuti Wildlife Sanctuary, Piasau Nature Reserve, Lambir National Park, Niah National Park and Mulu National Park in Miri, as well as Samunsam Wildlife Sanctuary, Bako National Park and Kuching Wetland National Park in Kuching, and Bukit Lima Nature Reserve in Sibu.
Abang Arabi said SFC was also prepared to respond to wildlife injuries caused by forest fires, as well as health problems resulting from exposure to heavy smoke and haze.
He said the preparations included having emergency equipment and trained personnel, including SFC veterinary officers, on standby to enable immediate action to be taken in the event of an emergency.
“Working with private veterinary centres and the Department of Veterinary Services is also part of our strategy to address wildlife health issues,” he said.
Abang Arabi said climate change, which contributes to hotter and drier conditions, required SFC to adopt a more systematic approach to preparedness.
“In this regard, we regularly assess the situation and update existing guidelines and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
“Our goal is not only to respond to fires, but more importantly, to prevent them, detect them early and protect forests and wildlife before the situation worsens,” he said.
Transboundary haze has affected several areas in Sarawak since early August.
According to the Department of Environment (DOE)’s Malaysian Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) portal, the Air Pollutant Index (API) reading in Serian stood at 495 as of 7 am today, placing it at the hazardous level.
Three areas recorded very unhealthy API readings, namely Kuching (289), Samarahan (265) and Sri Aman (250). — Bernama
