Haze: Air quality in seven states at unhealthy levels

PETALING JAYA: Air quality is unhealthy in 19 areas in seven states as of 5pm on Sunday (Oct 8).

The Malaysian Air Pollution Index Management System (APIMS) website showed that the Nilai, Negri Sembilan recorded the highest IPU with a reading of 162.

This was followed by Bukit Rambai, Melaka (160); Batu Pahat, Johor (159); Cheras, Kuala Lumpur (155); Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan (154); Banting, Selangor (152); Alor Gajah, Melaka (152) and Melaka City, Melaka (152).

In addition, Tangkak, Johor (151); Segamat, Johor (151); Putrajaya (148); Klang, Selangor (143); Seremban, Negeri Sembilan (141); Larkin, Johor (138); Paka, Terengganu (120); Kemaman, Terengganu (109); Rompin, Pahang (108); Indera Mahkota Kuantan, Pahang (105) and Shah Alam, Selangor (103).

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In the meantime, 42 APIMS stations across the country recorded moderate IPU readings, while another five stations recorded good readings in Sabah and Sarawak.

IPU readings between 0 to 50 are categorized as good, 51 to 100 (moderate), 101 to 200 (unhealthy), 201 to 300 (very unhealthy), while 300 and above are dangerous.

Last May, the media reported that weather and climate authorities warned of more severe haze in the southern Asean region between June and October.

The warning comes as the dry season is predicted to be more severe and prolonged than usual.

The public can refer to the official website of the Environment Department at https://apims.doe.gov.my/home.html for the latest information.