World · Malaysia Bureau
36 Malaysian areas hit unhealthy air quality levels amid haze
Air pollution across Malaysia deteriorated sharply, with more than three dozen monitoring stations recording unhealthy readings. Pasir Gudang in Johor emerged as the worst-affected area with an API measurement of 190.
LSN Malaysia ·
A total of 36 locations across Malaysia registered unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings as of early evening on Tuesday, signalling a marked deterioration in air quality across the nation. The widespread pollution was concentrated in several states, with southern regions appearing most severely affected. Pasir Gudang in Johor recorded the highest API level at 190, placing it well into the unhealthy category that poses health risks to vulnerable populations. The reading indicated a significant spike in airborne pollutants in the industrial area. Authorities did not immediately disclose which other regions were among the 36 affected areas, though haze conditions typically impact the Klang Valley, Selangor and Johor during periods of elevated air pollution. An API reading between 101 and 200 is classified as unhealthy, while readings above 300 are considered hazardous. The Department of Environment has been monitoring the situation closely as transboundary haze remains a recurring environmental challenge for the region during certain seasons.