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Air quality improves on peninsula as Sarawak battles hazardous pollution

Peninsular Malaysia is experiencing clearer skies, but air quality remains hazardous across six districts in Sarawak. Most of East Malaysia continues to grapple with unhealthy and very unhealthy air conditions.

LSN Malaysia · 1 September 2026

Air quality improves on peninsula as Sarawak battles hazardous pollution

Air quality conditions across Malaysia show a marked contrast, with the peninsula benefiting from improved atmospheric conditions while East Malaysia remains blanketed by hazardous pollution levels.

Six districts throughout Sarawak are currently experiencing hazardous air quality, posing significant health risks to residents. The majority of other areas in East Malaysia are reporting either very unhealthy or unhealthy air quality readings. Sandakan in Sabah stands as the only exception in the region, with relatively better air quality conditions.

The improvement in peninsular Malaysia's air quality provides relief to residents and businesses after recent periods of poor atmospheric conditions. However, authorities in Sarawak have expressed concern over the persistent hazardous conditions affecting multiple districts simultaneously.

The disparity in air quality between regions highlights the localized nature of current pollution patterns, with East Malaysia bearing the brunt of hazardous atmospheric conditions. Residents in affected Sarawak districts are advised to take precautionary measures and monitor air quality updates from relevant environmental authorities.