Johan Setia air quality reaches unhealthy level

Photo courtesy of Bernama

Air quality in Johan Setia, Klang reached an unhealthy level on Tuesday morning, with the Air Pollutant Index recording 157 at 8am.

National air-quality data showed that most other locations remained in the moderate range. Sixty-four monitoring stations reported moderate readings, while Alor Setar and Langkawi in Kedah, together with Perlis, were rated good.

Malaysia’s API is updated hourly using data from 68 monitoring stations nationwide. A score from 0 to 50 is good, 51 to 100 is moderate and 101 to 200 is unhealthy. The next categories are very unhealthy, from 201 to 300, and hazardous above 300.

What an unhealthy reading means

An API of 157 means people may begin to feel the effects of poor air quality, while children, older people, pregnant women and those with heart or respiratory conditions face greater risk. Residents in affected areas should monitor the API, reduce extended outdoor activity where possible and follow health advice.

Recent rain had improved haze conditions in the Klang Valley and parts of Sarawak, but the Malaysian Meteorological Department said the risk has not passed. The country remains in the Southwest Monsoon period until late September.

Open burning remains a concern

18 August 2026

MetMalaysia director-general Mohd Hisham Mohd Ani warned that haze could worsen again if open burning is not controlled. Dry conditions and smoke can allow pollution to build up, especially when wind movement is limited.

For people travelling through the Klang area, the practical step is to check local conditions before prolonged time outdoors. Those with asthma or other existing health issues may wish to keep medication available and avoid strenuous activity while readings remain elevated.

Conditions can change through the day, so the hourly national data remains the most useful guide for residents and visitors.

18 August 2026