{
  "id": 727250,
  "title": "Haze: Penang monitors air quality as Minden API at 98 nears unhealthy level",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/13/haze-penang-monitors-air-quality-as-minden-api-at-98-nears-unhealthy",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-13T03:44:19.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/regional/2026/08/1510223/haze-penang-monitors-air-quality-minden-api-98-nears-unhealthy-level"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "George Town, Penang reported moderate air quality this morning, with Minden registering the highest Air Pollutant Index (API) reading at 98, nearing the unhealthy threshold of 101. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow stated that the state government is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to take further measures if air quality deteriorates to a more critical level. He advised that advisory may be issued to suspend certain activities, including outdoor activities at specific schools, if the situation worsens. The latest readings indicated Seberang Jaya at 93, Seberang Prai at 89, and Balik Pulau at 89. Chow communicated with the state secretary, who provided a report on the air quality situation in Penang, indicating that a statement would be issued on the API reading. Minden's reading of 98 was close to the unhealthy level of 101. Seven areas in Sarawak, including Samarahan, Serian, Kuching, Sri Aman, Sarikei, Mukah, and Sibu, recorded unhealthy API readings this morning, down from nine the previous day. The public, especially children, senior citizens, and those with respiratory problems, were advised to monitor air quality updates and reduce strenuous outdoor activities if conditions worsen.",
  "summary": "GEORGE TOWN: Penang recorded moderate air quality this morning, with Minden registering the state’s highest Air Pollutant Index (API) reading at 98.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}