Haze situation improves, only 20 areas at unhealthy API levels as of 9am

The haze situation nationwide has improved with the number of areas recording unhealthy air pollutant index (API) readings down to 20 as of 9am, from 32 yesterday evening .

According to the Air Pollutant Index management system (APIMS) portal, Kuching and Serian in Sarawak recorded the highest reading at 169, Bernama reported.

Six other areas in the state also registered unhealthy API levels: Samarahan (163), Sri Aman (162), Sibu (159), Sarikei (152), Bintulu (135) and Kapit (118).

Two areas in Perak logged unhealthy readings: Seri Manjung (164) and Tanjung Malim (113). Over in Selangor, the affected areas are Shah Alam (157), Petaling Jaya (139) and Johan Setia (113).

In addition, two areas in Kuala Lumpur registered unhealthy levels: Batu Muda (155) and Cheras (155), along with Putrajaya (154).

Unhealthy API readings were also recorded in Nilai, Negeri Sembilan (151); Larkin, Johor (139); Bukit Rambai, Melaka (111); and Tawau, Sabah (108).

Meanwhile, 37 areas recorded moderate readings, while another 10 areas recorded good readings.

An API reading of zero to 50 indicates good air quality, 51 to 100 (moderate), 101 to 200 (unhealthy), 201 to 300 (very unhealthy) and 301 and above is hazardous.