Air quality remains poor across Malaysia; only two stations show improvement

The Department of Environment's air quality monitoring network recorded concerning pollution levels across Malaysia on Monday, with approximately 30 stations reporting unhealthy air quality indices. The widespread haze continues to affect major population centres and neighbouring regions, prompting health authorities to advise vulnerable groups to limit outdoor activities.

Sarawak has emerged as a particular concern, with multiple monitoring stations in the state registering unhealthy readings. The deterioration in air quality has been attributed to transboundary haze, with meteorological conditions trapping pollutants in the lower atmosphere across the peninsula and the eastern Malaysian state.

Among Malaysia's 42 air quality monitoring stations, only Kangar in Perlis and Langkawi in Kedah maintained good air quality readings during the reporting period. Moderate air quality was recorded at several other locations, though the majority of stations continued to show unhealthy levels.

Authorities have advised residents in affected areas to wear N95 masks when venturing outdoors, while schools and other institutions in severely impacted zones have been instructed to monitor air quality indices for potential disruptions to activities. The Department of Environment continues to monitor the situation closely.