World · Malaysia Bureau
Johor bears brunt of haze crisis with record unhealthy readings
Johor has emerged as the worst-affected state in Malaysia's current air quality crisis, accounting for more than one-third of the nation's unhealthy Air Pollutant Index readings. Batu Pahat in the state registered the country's highest pollution level at 192.
LSN Malaysia ·
The southern state is grappling with severe air quality degradation, recording eight of the 23 unhealthy API readings documented across Malaysia. The situation underscores the disproportionate impact of transboundary haze pollution on Johor, which frequently bears the brunt of regional air quality challenges.
Batu Pahat's API reading of 192 represents a significant health concern, falling well into the unhealthy category on Malaysia's air quality scale. At this level, members of the general public are advised to reduce prolonged outdoor activities, while vulnerable groups including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions are urged to take precautionary measures.
The concentration of unhealthy readings in Johor reflects the state's geographical position and prevailing wind patterns that channel pollutants from neighbouring regions. Authorities have not yet indicated whether the air quality degradation is expected to persist or improve in the coming days.
Residents in affected areas are advised to monitor official air quality updates and take necessary health precautions, including the use of N95 masks for outdoor activities and increased consumption of air-purifying measures in indoor spaces.