GEORGE TOWN: One may need a double take to notice the city, as things do appear slightly blurry due to the presence of light haze.
With the south-west monsoon blowing squarely from Indonesia, the regional haze situation is making its mark.
According to the Asean Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC), as of Tuesday (July 29) afternoon, several hotspots have been detected in Sumatra and Kalimantan, indicating ongoing large-scale slash-and-burn agricultural activities.
While the haze remains at a moderate level, it may appear as a light blanket of smog over the skyline to the naked eye.
The Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) recorded moderate air quality in several areas on Penang island as of 4pm Tuesday.
Balik Pulau registered an API reading of 60, while George Town showed a slightly higher reading of 66. Tanjung Bungah, meanwhile, recorded an API of 31, which falls under the “good” category.
On the mainland, API readings ranged between 69 and 72 at various locations, also within the “moderate” category.
An API reading of between 0 and 50 is good while 51 to 100 is moderate, 101 to 200 is unhealthy, 201 to 300 very unhealthy, and 301 and above deemed hazardous.
The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), in a statement on its website, confirmed that transboundary haze is affecting several states along the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia.
“Based on satellite image analysis dated July 18, 2025, the ASMC reported 79 hotspots in Sumatra, which are likely contributing to the haze being carried over by the south-westerly winds,” the statement said.
MetMalaysia also warned that no significant rainfall or wind changes are expected in the near term to help disperse the haze.
“The public is advised to avoid open burning activities, as this can further worsen the haze and contribute to environmental pollution,” it added.
Despite the haze, the weather forecast for Penang over the next few days includes isolated thunderstorms, with temperatures expected to range between 25°C and 30°C.
