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

A view of the haze in Port Klang October 16, 2026. A total of 24 areas nationwide recorded unhealthy air quality as of 9.30am, with Pasir Gudang, Johor, registering the highest Air Pollutant Index reading at 196. — Bernama pic

First Published: Saturday, 17 Oct 2026 10:59 AM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 17 — A total of 24 areas nationwide recorded unhealthy air quality as of 9.30am, with Pasir Gudang, Johor, registering the highest Air Pollutant Index (API) reading at 196.

According to the Department of Environment’s (DOE) Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) portal, seven other areas in Johor also recorded unhealthy readings: Larkin (177), Pengerang (174), Kota Tinggi (172), Batu Pahat (170), Tangkak (168), Segamat (161) and Kluang (159).

In Negeri Sembilan, Nilai recorded an API reading of 173, followed by Seremban (172) and Port Dickson (157).

In Selangor, Klang recorded 171, Johan Setia 170, Petaling Jaya and Shah Alam 169 each, and Banting 153.

In Kuala Lumpur, Cheras recorded 162 and Batu Muda 159, while Putrajaya also registered 162.

Three areas in Melaka also recorded unhealthy readings: Melaka City (169), Bukit Rambai (166) and Alor Gajah (165).

In Sabah, Sandakan recorded 156 and Tawau 150.

Meanwhile, 43 areas recorded moderate air quality, while one area registered a good reading.

API readings of zero to 50 indicate good air quality, 51 to 100 moderate, 101 to 200 unhealthy, 201 to 300 very unhealthy, and above 300 hazardous. — Bernama