28 Areas Across Malaysia Record Unhealthy Air Pollutant Index Readings

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 17 — A total of 28 areas nationwide recorded Air Pollutant Index (API) readings at unhealthy levels as of 9:45 am today, according to data from the Malaysian Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) portal.

Perak recorded the highest number of affected areas at five, with Tasek Ipoh reporting an API reading of 182, followed by Seri Manjung (180), Pegoh Ipoh (160), Taiping (157), and Tanjung Malim (154).

In Penang, four locations registered unhealthy levels—Seberang Jaya (156), Minden (156), Seberang Perai (154), and Balik Pulau (110)—while Selangor also recorded four affected areas, namely Johan Setia (157), Shah Alam (154), Banting (144), and Petaling Jaya (135). In Kuala Lumpur, Cheras recorded 157 and Batu Muda registered 155, while Putrajaya stood at 157. Negeri Sembilan saw elevated readings in Nilai (157) and Seremban (151).

Across southern Peninsular Malaysia, Melaka registered unhealthy air quality in Bukit Rambai (148), Bandaraya Melaka (133), and Alor Gajah (111), while Johor recorded affected areas in Batu Pahat (152) and Kluang (144). In the northern region, Kedah recorded unhealthy readings in Sungai Petani (160) and Kulim Hi-Tech (132).

Single locations in three other states also crossed into unhealthy territory, including Kuala Terengganu (153) in Terengganu, Jerantut (152) in Pahang, and Kuching (109) in Sarawak.

An API reading of 0 to 50 indicates good air quality, 51 to 100 is moderate, 101 to 200 is unhealthy, 201 to 300 is very unhealthy, and 301 and above is classified as hazardous.

Meanwhile, 32 areas nationwide recorded air quality at moderate levels, while eight areas registered good air quality readings.

–NMT