Malaysia's air quality plummets as Indonesian fires spread haze

Air quality across Malaysia worsened considerably on Friday, driven by active fire hotspots in Indonesia's Kalimantan region. Authorities recorded 324 hotspots burning in Kalimantan, with transboundary haze drifting into Malaysian states, particularly affecting Sarawak.

Four areas in Sarawak reported hazardous air quality levels, marking a sharp deterioration from earlier in the week. The Air Pollutant Index readings exceeded safe thresholds in these zones, prompting health warnings for vulnerable populations including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.

The worsening haze reflects the annual burning season in Indonesian peatlands and forests, which typically peaks during the dry season. Winds carrying smoke and fine particulate matter across the Malacca Strait have repeatedly affected Malaysian air quality in recent weeks.

Authorities urged residents in affected areas to limit outdoor activities and use protective masks. The Department of Environment indicated that air quality would likely remain volatile pending changes in weather patterns and fire suppression efforts in Kalimantan.