Air quality plummets to unhealthy levels at 38 stations nationwide

Air pollution levels across Malaysia have worsened markedly, with the Department of Environment recording unhealthy air quality readings at 38 monitoring locations nationwide as of September 15. The widespread deterioration signals a notable shift in atmospheric conditions across the country's key urban and industrial areas.

Johor bore the brunt of the pollution spike, emerging as the most severely affected state with multiple stations registering hazardous readings. Environmental officials have attributed the decline to a combination of factors, including transboundary haze and localised emission sources.

The unhealthy air quality classification indicates that members of the general public may begin to experience health effects, while sensitive groups—including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions—face heightened risks. Health authorities have advised vulnerable populations to limit outdoor activities and consider using protective masks.

Residents and businesses have been urged to monitor real-time air quality data through the government's Air Pollutant Index platform. Authorities said they are coordinating with relevant agencies to identify pollution sources and implement targeted mitigation measures to reverse the deterioration.