ASEAN raises highest haze alert for southern region

The ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre has activated its highest transboundary haze alert for southern ASEAN after a further deterioration in hotspots and smoke haze during prolonged dry conditions.

The Level 3 alert signals a high risk of severe cross-border haze. The centre said widespread moderate to dense smoke haze had been detected from hotspot clusters in Kalimantan, with haze also drifting northwards from West Kalimantan.

Smoke across Indonesia and Sarawak

ASMC reported moderate to dense smoke haze across large parts of southern and central Sumatra. It said NOAA-20 satellite data detected 287 and 190 hotspots in Kalimantan on Aug 24 and 25 respectively, while Sumatra recorded 65 and 81 hotspots on those dates.

Its latest daily report also noted smoke plumes moving north into western Sarawak. Air-quality stations in West and South Kalimantan, central and southern Sumatra, and western Sarawak recorded readings ranging from unhealthy to hazardous.

Regional conditions

The alert was activated on Wednesday as dry weather continued to worsen conditions in the southern ASEAN region. Singapore reported moderate air quality on Thursday morning, with its 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index ranging from 56 to 64.

Haze conditions can change rapidly with wind direction, rainfall and the spread of hotspots, so regional authorities will continue monitoring satellite and ground-station readings.

What it means for foreigners in Malaysia

Foreign residents and visitors in Malaysia, especially in Sarawak and areas affected by drifting haze, should follow local air-quality updates and health advice. People with asthma or other respiratory conditions may need to limit outdoor activity when readings worsen, while travellers should allow for reduced visibility and possible disruption to outdoor plans.

28 August 2026