Penang air quality worsens, 4 areas hit unhealthy levels

GEORGE TOWN: Four air quality monitoring stations in Penang recorded unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings as of 11am today, prompting authorities to advise the public to take precautions.

State Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo said readings recorded through the Department of Environment's (DoE) API Management System were 167 in Minden, 164 in Balik Pulau, 162 in Seberang Jaya and 160 in Seberang Prai.

He said Minden and Balik Pulau had recorded unhealthy API readings over the past 24 hours, while readings in Seberang Jaya and Seberang Prai had risen from moderate to unhealthy levels.

"The state government advises the public not to panic, but to take precautionary measures, particularly in areas where API readings are unhealthy.

"Children, senior citizens, pregnant women and those with respiratory problems are advised to reduce heavy or prolonged outdoor physical activity in areas with unhealthy readings," he said.

Sundarajoo said those experiencing coughing, breathing difficulties, chest discomfort, sore throat or eye irritation should reduce exposure to outdoor air and seek medical attention if symptoms persisted or worsened.

Those who are healthy can continue their daily activities while taking local conditions and current API readings into account, but are encouraged to reduce unnecessary outdoor activities if readings continue to rise.

He said the state government, through relevant agencies, would continue monitoring air quality and coordinate with the DoE on the latest assessments.

The DoE would also monitor open burning and fires that could contribute to deteriorating air quality, with enforcement action taken under its jurisdiction and existing laws.

"Authorities will continue monitoring API readings, hotspots and transboundary haze developments, while taking meteorological information into account when assessing the situation and coordinating haze-management measures.

"The DoE is also intensifying its open-burning prohibition campaign through outreach at educational institutions, communities, industrial sectors and government agencies," he said.

Sundarajoo urged the public to avoid activities that could contribute to air pollution, including open burning, and to report such incidents to the relevant authorities.

He also advised the public to remain calm, monitor API developments and prioritise the health and safety of themselves and their families.