Air quality deteriorates across Malaysia with 34 areas reaching unhealthy levels

Thirty-four areas across Malaysia reported unhealthy API levels as of 5pm on Monday, with several districts in Selangor experiencing particularly poor air quality. The Klang Valley region, including Klang, Nilai, and Shah Alam, emerged as among the most severely affected zones, with readings approaching the critical 200-point threshold that typically triggers health advisories and activity restrictions.

The Air Pollutant Index, which ranges from 0 to 500, categorizes readings above 100 as unhealthy, above 200 as very unhealthy, and above 300 as hazardous. When API levels breach the unhealthy mark, vulnerable populations including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions face increased health risks.

The spike in air pollution levels reflects seasonal patterns common to the region during certain months, when atmospheric conditions and transboundary haze can combine to degrade air quality across Malaysia and neighbouring countries. Authorities typically recommend that residents in affected areas limit outdoor activities, use air purifiers indoors, and monitor official air quality bulletins for updates.

The Department of Environment Malaysia regularly updates API readings across monitoring stations nationwide, providing real-time data to help the public make informed decisions about outdoor activities and health precautions.