Malaysia air quality reaches unhealthy levels in multiple regions

Multiple regions across Malaysia have recorded unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings, with Sarawak reporting some of the highest levels. In Sarawak, Serian and Kapit recorded high readings, with Serian reaching as high as 176 in some reports. Other affected areas in the state include Samarahan, Kuching, Sri Aman, Bintulu, Miri, Sibu, Samalaju, and Limbang.

In Peninsular Malaysia, unhealthy air quality was noted in Putrajaya, Cheras (Kuala Lumpur), Nilai, Seremban, Shah Alam, Johan Setia, Petaling Jaya, Bukit Rambai, and Melaka City. Johor also reported unhealthy levels in Segamat, Batu Pahat, Larkin, and Tangkak. In Sabah, Politeknik Kota Kinabalu recorded an unhealthy reading.

The Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) categorizes readings between 101 and 200 as unhealthy, 201 to 300 as very unhealthy, and above 301 as hazardous. The number of locations reporting unhealthy air quality has shown an upward trend, increasing from 21 to 27 monitoring sites over a recent period.