Haze: 15 areas in Malaysia record unhealthy air quality, Pasir Gudang records highest API reading at 180

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 11 — A total of 15 areas nationwide recorded unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings as of 9am today, with Pasir Gudang, Johor, recording the highest reading at 180.

According to the Department of Environment’s (DOE) Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) portal, seven other areas in Johor also recorded unhealthy API readings: Larkin (178), Kota Tinggi (166), Tangkak (164), Segamat (162), Pengerang (160), Kluang (159) and Batu Pahat (151), national news agency Bernama reported.

In Pahang, Balok Baru in Kuantan recorded an API reading of 159, while Rompin recorded 53 and Cheras in Kuala Lumpur registered 157.

Other areas with unhealthy API readings were Kemaman and Kuala Terengganu in Terengganu, which recorded 156 each, while Paka registered 133 and Alor Gajah in Melaka recorded 103.

Meanwhile, 50 areas recorded moderate API readings, while three recorded good air quality.

API readings of zero to 50 indicate good air quality, 51 to 100 moderate, 101 to 200 unhealthy, 201 to 300 very unhealthy, and readings above 300 hazardous.