Government prepared to declare emergency if air pollution hits 400

The government is prepared to propose an emergency declaration for any locality that records an Air Pollution Index (API) reading of 400 or above, according to a senior official. The threshold represents a critical level at which air quality poses severe health risks to the general population, particularly vulnerable groups including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.

The announcement reflects growing concerns over air quality in Malaysia, with authorities implementing a tiered response system based on API measurements. The move aims to enable rapid government intervention, including potential evacuation of residents and closure of schools and non-essential business operations, should pollution levels reach dangerous extremes.

Under the current system, API readings are continuously monitored across multiple stations nationwide. When readings approach the 400 mark, authorities typically activate emergency protocols to mitigate public health impacts and identify pollution sources. Officials stressed that the government remains committed to maintaining air quality standards and protecting citizens' wellbeing through decisive action when necessary.

The declaration comes amid broader efforts to address air quality issues across the region, with neighbouring countries also grappling with similar environmental challenges during certain seasons.