The air quality in Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, and Miri in Sarawak has reached “unhealthy” levels, with authorities warning residents to limit outdoor activities as haze continues to affect parts of the country.
As of 11:05am today, real-time data from the Air Pollution Index Management System (APIMS) under the Department of Environment (DOE) showed readings of 125 in Cheras and 129 in Miri. Both figures fall within the “unhealthy” range of 101-200, which may pose health risks, especially to sensitive groups such as children, the elderly and those with respiratory issues.
The rest of Malaysia continues to report moderate to good air quality, with API levels staying below 100 in most areas.
According to APIMS classification, an API reading of between 0 and 50 is classified as “Good”, between 51 and 100 as “Moderate”, between 101 and 200 as “Unhealthy”, between 201 and 300 as “Very Unhealthy” while any API reading above 300 is classified as “Hazardous”.
The department has attributed the deterioration to transboundary haze, particularly affecting the west coast regions. Prevailing wind patterns have carried smoke and particulate matter across the border, a recurring issue during dry seasons in Southeast Asia.
