Haze returns: What Malaysians need to know as air quality deteriorates

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 17 — Malaysians are once again facing the unwelcome return of haze, with air quality deteriorating in several states. As of Thursday (Aug 13) morning, 11 areas across the country had unhealthy air quality levels, with Sarawak the most affected. The highest Air Pollutant Index (API) reading was recorded in Samarahan at 183, followed by Serian and Kuching.

In Peninsular Malaysia, four areas recorded unhealthy readings, including Johan Setia and Shah Alam in Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya. The current haze is largely caused by forest and land fires in neighboring Indonesia, where extensive land-clearing practices are common. Meteorologists warn that without significant rainfall, the haze may persist.

Malaysia is susceptible to haze due to its tropical climate, high humidity, and location. Haze is characterised by fine particulate matter suspended in the atmosphere, including smoke, dust, and industrial emissions. Land-clearing practices, particularly for palm oil plantations, contribute to significant emissions when fires occur.

Smoke from these fires can drift across borders, severely affecting Malaysia's air quality. Haze has been a recurring issue in Malaysia since the late 1990s, often linked to land-clearing methods and changing weather patterns. Malaysia assesses air quality using the API, which measures various pollutants and is divided into several categories.

Health advisories and measures such as school closures or limiting outdoor activities are typically taken when API levels rise. Certain groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions, are particularly vulnerable during haze episodes. Masks, particularly N95 respirators, can help reduce exposure to haze, but their effectiveness depends on the level of pollution.