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Seven areas across four states hit unhealthy air pollution levels

Air quality deteriorated across multiple regions in Malaysia, with Serian in Sarawak recording a concerning API reading of 194 on Monday morning, approaching very unhealthy thresholds.

LSN Malaysia · 23 August 2026

Seven areas across four states hit unhealthy air pollution levels

Seven locations spanning four Malaysian states registered unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings, with Serian in Sarawak experiencing the most elevated levels among affected areas. The town recorded an API measurement of 194 on Monday morning, placing it in the unhealthy range and just below the very unhealthy classification threshold of 200 and above. This marks a significant air quality concern for residents in the affected regions. The widespread pollution readings across multiple states suggest broader atmospheric conditions contributing to degraded air quality throughout the peninsula and East Malaysia. Authorities typically recommend that members of the public, particularly children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, limit outdoor activities when API readings enter unhealthy ranges.