Haze raises concerns as air quality turns unhealthy in Alor Setar, Sungai Petani

Air quality in Alor Setar and Sungai Petani has deteriorated to unhealthy levels due to haze, prompting health authorities to caution residents to limit outdoor activities and take precautions against health impacts, according to reports published on August 24, 2026. As of 3pm, Alor Setar's Air Pollutant Index (API) reading was 152, while Sungai Petani recorded 155, both falling within the unhealthy range of 101 to 200. Langkawi and Kulim Hi-Tech maintained moderate air quality with readings of 84 and 91, respectively.

The Kedah State Health Department recommended that residents reduce the duration and intensity of strenuous outdoor activities during this period. People in high-risk groups, including children, the elderly, and those with heart or respiratory conditions, were advised to exercise extra caution. Health authorities urged vulnerable individuals to seek medical attention if they experienced coughing, breathing difficulties, irritated or watery eyes, chest pain, or worsening symptoms.

The haze's effects were evident in Alor Setar, where reduced visibility in open areas prompted residents to cut back on outdoor activities. Food delivery worker Fatin Norshalihah Azman, 30, noted that the deteriorating air quality had made working outdoors increasingly uncomfortable, causing irritation in her eyes and discomfort in her breathing.

She resorted to exercising indoors instead of her usual jogging sessions in the evenings. The unhealthy air quality readings emphasize the necessity for residents to closely monitor air quality, especially as prolonged exposure can pose greater risks to vulnerable groups and individuals spending long periods outdoors.