Malaysia

Johor hotspots lead Malaysia’s haze tally as 25 localities record unhealthy air

Some 25 locations nationwide record elevated air pollution levels despite two sites returning to the healthy category, according to the Department of Environment

Updated 1 hour ago · Published on 18 Oct 2026 8:04AM

Johor hotspots lead Malaysia’s haze tally as 25 localities record unhealthy air
Johor accounts for seven localities with unhealthy air quality on Sunday - October 18, 2026

JOHOR remained a key haze hotspot on Sunday, with seven localities recording unhealthy air quality as 25 locations nationwide registered air pollution index (API) readings above 100 as at 7am.

The Department of Environment’s Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) recorded the highest reading in Pasir Gudang at 189, followed by Larkin (181), Kota Tinggi (180), Pengerang (178), Batu Pahat (169), Kluang (163) and Tangkak (160).

Selangor recorded five localities with unhealthy air quality, led by Johan Setia at 163, followed by Shah Alam (162), Klang (160), Petaling Jaya (158) and Banting (157).

In Negeri Sembilan, Nilai recorded an API reading of 173, Seremban 170 and Port Dickson 153, while in Melaka, Bukit Rambai registered 164, Alor Gajah 161 and Bandaraya Melaka 155.

Putrajaya recorded an API reading of 159, while other localities with unhealthy readings included Cheras (157), Batu Muda (155), Sandakan (153), the Serian District Police Headquarters (152) and Tawau (108).

Despite the widespread unhealthy readings, air quality in two localities was classified as healthy, with Balik Pulau in Penang recording 41 and Limbang in Sarawak 45.

A further 41 localities recorded moderate air quality, while none registered very unhealthy or hazardous readings. - October 18, 2026

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