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Malaysia
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See hourly API readings (Department of Environment) |
Background
Malaysia is frequently affected by air pollution or “haze.” The main causes are regional forest fires and the practice of burning of agricultural waste by farmers in neighbouring Indonesia. The prevailing winds blow in smoke and lead to poor air quality. The situation usually occurs between June and September each year.
Other sources of air pollution are related to industries, development activities, motor vehicles and power generation.
The government has set a number of regulations for environmental quality, including Clean Air 2014. The ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution [PDF, 271KB] was signed in 2002 and needs to be ratified by member countries periodically.
Air Quality Measurement
Air Pollutant Index (API) indicates the status of air quality in a particular location. It is calculated based on data collected at monitoring stations throughout the country. The process is completed hourly and readings are updated on the website. At present, the Department of Environment (DOE) cannot forecast API readings.
Pollutants being measured include: particulate matter with diameter of less than 10 micron (PM10), sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3) and carbon monoxide (CO). In 2018, the API figures published by the DOE also began measuring particulate matter with diameters of 2.5 micron and below (PM2.5), based on the guidelines set by the World Health Organization (WHO).
API and Health Advice:
| API VALUE | AIR QUALITY DESCRIPTOR | ADVICE |
|
0-50 Good |
Low pollution without any bad effect on health | No restriction for outdoor activities to the public. Maintain healthy lifestyle |
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51-100 Moderate |
Moderate pollution that does not pose any bad effect on health | No restriction for outdoor activities to the public. Maintain healthy lifestyle |
|
101-200 Unhealthy (for senstive groups) |
Pollution that worsens the health of high risk people | High risk people should limit outdoor activities. |
|
201-300 Very unhealthy |
Worsens the health condition and lowers tolerance of physical exercise in people with heart and lung disease | High risk people are advised to stay indoor and reduce physical activities. People with health complications are advised to see a doctor. |
|
Above 300 Hazardous |
Dangerous health effects for everyone |
Outdoor activities are prohibited for high risk groups. Public are advised to avoid outdoor activities. |
|
Above 500 Emergency |
Dangerous health effects for everyone | Public is advised to follow announcements by the National Security Council on media. |
Reviewed: September 2026
