Malaysia’s haze situation remained widespread on Friday, with 34 areas recording unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings as of 7am, led by Johan Setia in Selangor at 198.
Data from the Department of Environment’s (DOE) Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) showed several areas in Sarawak among the worst affected, with Kuching recording an API reading of 192, followed by Samarahan at 185 and Serian at 182.
Other areas in Sarawak including Mukah, Sarikei, Samalaju, Bintulu, Miri and Sibu also recorded unhealthy readings.
In Peninsular Malaysia, unhealthy air quality was also recorded in Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, along with several locations in Perak, Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Melaka, Johor and Pahang.
Under the DOE’s classification, API readings between 101 and 200 are considered unhealthy, while readings between 201 and 300 are categorised as very unhealthy. Readings above 300 are classified as hazardous.
The public, particularly children, elderly people and those with respiratory-related health conditions, have been advised to limit outdoor activities and take appropriate precautions while the haze persists.
