Haze worsens in Malaysia: Nine areas breach 180 API, Seremban still the worst at 189

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 9 — Air quality in Malaysia worsened significantly, with nine monitoring stations pushing past the critical Air Pollutant Index (API) level of 180 by 2pm, up from seven stations earlier in the day, according to the Department of Environment (DOE). The worst-affected area remained Seremban, with its API reading rising to 189 from 186 earlier.

Pasir Gudang in Johor recorded the sharpest increase, going from 179 to 188. Bukit Rambai in Melaka and Segamat and Tangkak in Johor both hit 184. Tasek Ipoh in Perak and the peat fire hotspot Johan Setia in Selangor were tied at 183, while Nilai in Negeri Sembilan and Bandaraya Melaka stood at 182. Alor Gajah in Melaka and Larkin in Johor were at the threshold, both recording 180.

Nationwide, 37 out of 68 stations reported unhealthy air quality (API 101-200), 31 had moderate levels, and none were in the good or very unhealthy categories. The number of unhealthy stations fell by one compared to the morning, after the lowest unhealthy reading of 107 was recorded at Balok Baru Kuantan. Widespread school closures were announced across five states and federal territories due to the deteriorating air quality.