World · Malaysia Bureau
Haze blankets 30 Malaysian areas as air quality hits unhealthy levels
Thirty locations across Malaysia recorded unhealthy Air Pollutant Index readings on Tuesday, with major urban centres including Ipoh, Petaling Jaya, Shah Alam and Kuching all affected by deteriorating air conditions.
LSN Malaysia ·
KUALA LUMPUR — Air quality has deteriorated significantly across Malaysia, with authorities recording unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings in 30 areas as of Tuesday afternoon. The widespread haze has impacted major population centres, including the Selangor cities of Petaling Jaya and Shah Alam, the Perak capital Ipoh, and Sarawak's largest city Kuching.
The unhealthy API classification typically prompts health authorities to issue advisories for vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. Residents in affected areas are generally advised to reduce outdoor activities and wear protective masks if venturing outside.
The Environmental Quality Act stipulates various air quality categories, with unhealthy readings indicating that the general public may begin experiencing health effects. Authorities typically monitor API levels throughout the day to track pollution trends and issue updated guidance to residents.
Malaysia's Department of Environment continues to monitor air quality across the nation, with real-time API data available through official channels to keep the public informed of conditions in their respective areas.