Haze: 24 areas record unhealthy API readings as of 9.30am, Pasir Gudang highest at 196, says DOE

On October 17, 24 locations across Malaysia recorded unhealthy air quality, according to the Department of Environment's Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS). Pasir Gudang in Johor had the highest API reading at 196, indicating a level of "unhealthy" air quality. Seven additional locations in Johor, including Larkin, Pengerang, Kota Tinggi, Batu Pahat, Tangkak, Segamat, and Kluang, also recorded unhealthy readings, ranging from 159 to 177.

In Negeri Sembilan, Nilai and Seremban both had API readings of 173, while Port Dickson registered 157. Selangor saw Klang with a reading of 171, Johan Setia at 170, Petaling Jaya and Shah Alam each at 169, and Banting at 153. In Kuala Lumpur, Cheras recorded a reading of 162, and Batu Muda had a reading of 159. Putrajaya also registered an API reading of 162.

Three locations in Melaka - Melaka City, Bukit Rambai, and Alor Gajah - recorded unhealthy readings, with API levels of 165, 166, and 169, respectively. In Sabah, Sandakan and Tawau reported API readings of 156 and 150, respectively.

Overall, 43 areas across Malaysia reported moderate air quality, while one area recorded a "good" reading. The API readings are categorized as follows: 0 to 50 indicates good air quality, 51 to 100 indicates moderate, 101 to 200 indicates unhealthy, 201 to 300 indicates very unhealthy, and above 300 indicates hazardous air quality.