Air pollution clears considerably in Malaysia and some cities in South-east Asia, study finds

The skyline of Kuala Lumpur city centre all clear on April 20 during the movement control order. - The Star/ANN

SINGAPORE (The Straits Times/ANN): Lockdowns and movement restrictions have led to blue skies in some parts of South-east Asia, giving residents a respite from air pollution.

The World Health Organisation says hazardous air in the region causes about 800,000 deaths a year and the brighter skies, however temporary, underscore how dependent the region is on fossil fuels for energy and transport and the health risks.