KUALA LUMPUR, Sept. 4 -- His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, has approved the declaration of an emergency throughout the Serian Division in Sarawak following worsening haze that has reached levels hazardous to public health and safety.

The Prime Minister's Office said the decision was made after taking into account the advice of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg and relevant agencies on air quality in the affected area.

The declaration will allow more effective measures to be taken to protect the health and welfare of residents affected by the hazardous air pollution.

"The government will continue to monitor developments from time to time and ensure all necessary measures are ...