Twenty-three Malaysian areas hit by unhealthy air quality as haze persists

Air quality across Malaysia has deteriorated significantly, with 23 monitoring stations recording unhealthy readings as haze blankets the region. The southern part of Peninsular Malaysia remains the hardest hit, with Johor experiencing particularly severe pollution levels. Kota Tinggi topped the nationwide rankings with an API reading of 170, indicating unhealthy air conditions that pose health risks to vulnerable populations including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.

Following closely behind Kota Tinggi, Pasir Gudang recorded an API of 169, while Seremban in Negeri Sembilan reached 166. Nilai and Pengerang each registered readings of 164, underscoring the widespread nature of the pollution affecting the southern corridor. The API scale measures concentrations of pollutants including particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, ozone, and carbon monoxide.

The persistent haze has prompted health authorities to advise residents in affected areas to limit outdoor activities and wear protective masks when venturing outside. Schools and workplaces in the most heavily impacted zones have implemented contingency measures to protect public health. Meteorological officials attributed the air quality deterioration to transboundary haze and local atmospheric conditions, with forecasts suggesting conditions may take several days to improve.