DOE: Air quality mostly moderate nationwide, Johan Setia stands out with unhealthy reading 137

On August 17, the Department of Environment (DOE) reported that air quality in Selangor was primarily moderate, with only one location in the nation registering unhealthy levels. At 1pm, Johan Setia in Selangor reported an Air Pollutant Index (API) of 137, marking it as the sole area experiencing unhealthy air quality. This was in stark contrast to the rest of the country, where eight stations recorded good air quality and 58 at moderate levels.

The DOE had ramped up patrols and drone monitoring in Johan Setia, yet found no evidence of open burning or other contributing factors. Ground checks also came back clear, with banners indicating a ban on burning installed as a precautionary measure. Overall, DOE inspections in the area confirmed that conditions were under control.

Satellite data from the Asean Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) indicated 323 hotspots in Kalimantan, 61 in Sumatra, and one in Pahang on August 16. Regional haze maps showed dense smoke from clusters in Kalimantan and lighter haze in central Sumatra, with several monitoring stations in these regions recording unhealthy to hazardous levels.

In response, the DOE activated national action plans regarding open burning and haze, calling for landowners to monitor vulnerable areas such as landfills, peatlands, farms, and plantations to prevent fires. The public was reminded not to engage in open burning, and under the Environmental Quality Act (Amendment) 2024, offenders face fines ranging from RM25,000 to RM1 million, up to five years' jail, or both.

Offenders could also be fined up to 50% of the maximum fine. Hourly API readings are available on the DOE's website or through their MyJAS EQMS mobile app. The public can report open burning to the Fire and Rescue Department via 999 or the DOE hotline at 1-800-88-2727.