KUCHING: The Sarawak government is actively collaborating with international research institutions to develop climate adaptation strategies that address aerosol-climate interactions.
Sarawak Premier, Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg, said this is crucial for predicting rainfall patterns, extreme weather events, and forest health.
He said the state's unique geographical landscape offers an opportunity to study the effects of aerosols on climate change and atmospheric processes.
He added that aerosols' impacts on respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, especially among vulnerable populations, make it essential to understand and mitigate aerosol pollution as a public health priority.
"The link between air pollution and increased hospital admissions for asthma, lung infections, and chronic respiratory conditions underscores the urgency of addressing this issue at both local and global levels," said Abang Johari in a speech read by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian at the opening of the 13th Asian Aerosol Conference (AAC).
He said that the state faces frequent exposure to transboundary haze from biomass burning, which leads to elevated levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5).
"This not only impacts air quality but also poses significant health risks, particularly to children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions," he said, stressing that haze pollution is a regional and global challenge, not just a local issue.
Aerosols from biomass burning, especially fine particulate matter, can travel long distances, affecting air quality across borders. "Understanding the sources, transport, and transformation of aerosols in this context is critical for developing effective mitigation strategies," he said.
In response, Sarawak has made significant investments to enhance air quality monitoring, including adopting advanced technologies for real-time assessments. The premier said that the state government is committed to achieving several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 3 on good health and well-being, SDG 13 on climate action, and SDG 11 on sustainable cities and communities.
"These goals drive our initiatives in environmental management, sustainable urban development, and climate resilience, ensuring a healthier future for all," he said, adding that the state's Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy 2023 (PCDS 2030) embodies these objectives by integrating sustainability and environmental stewardship across sectors, from industrial planning to community development.
Through this strategy, Sarawak is embracing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles to support sustainable growth.
The strategy promotes green technology, sustainable resource management, and innovative research, aligning well with the goals of the AAC.
Abang Johari also highlighted Sarawak's initiatives that directly address aerosol-related environmental and health issues.
"Through cross-border collaboration and early warning systems, we aim to safeguard air quality and reduce the health risks associated with haze episodes. Additionally, sustainable biomass management is a priority," he said, adding that converting agricultural waste into bioenergy could help reduce harmful aerosol emissions, supporting global efforts to lower carbon footprints and improve air quality.
The five-day 13th AAC 2024 is organised by the Clean Air Forum Society of Malaysia and the Asian Aerosol Research Assembly.