KUCHING, Sept 4 2026 — Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) is tightening surveillance in high-risk forest areas as hot, dry and hazy conditions raise the threat of forest fires across the state.
SFC general manager Abang Arabi Abang Aimran said the weather warranted close attention because it could place added 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,” he told Bernama.
“Based on past incidents, we are focusing more on monitoring Totally Protected Areas (TPAs) that have previously been affected by forest fires.”
Among the sites under closer watch are Sibuti Wildlife Sanctuary, Piasau Nature Reserve, Lambir National Park, Niah National Park and Mulu National Park in Miri; 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 ready to respond to wildlife injuries caused by forest fires, as well as health problems linked to heavy smoke and haze. Emergency equipment and trained personnel, including SFC veterinary officers, have been placed on standby.
“Working with private veterinary centres and the Department of Veterinary Services is also part of our strategy to address wildlife health issues,” he said.
He added that climate change, which is contributing to hotter and drier conditions, required a more systematic approach to preparedness. SFC regularly reviews the situation and updates its guidelines and standard operating procedures.
“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 parts of Sarawak since early August.
According to the Department of Environment’s Malaysian Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS), the Air Pollutant Index (API) in Serian stood at 495 as of 7am today, placing it at the hazardous level. Kuching (289), Samarahan (265) and Sri Aman (250) recorded very unhealthy readings.
— Based on a Bernama report
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