Air quality at all four of Penang’s monitoring stations reached unhealthy levels on Wednesday morning, with Minden recording the state’s highest Air Pollutant Index reading of 167. The other stations also recorded unhealthy readings: Balik Pulau stood at 164, Seberang Jaya at 162 and Seberang Perai at 160. An API reading of 101 to 200 is classified as unhealthy. The figures show that haze is affecting both Penang island and the mainland. Conditions worsen at two stationsMinden and Balik Pulau had remained at unhealthy levels for the previous 24 hours, according to state Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo. In Seberang Jaya and Seberang Perai, conditions had deteriorated from moderate to unhealthy. The change illustrates how quickly air quality can worsen during a haze episode. The state government has urged the public not to panic, but to take sensible precautions in areas where readings have moved into the unhealthy range. Outdoor activities curtailedSchools on Penang island have stopped outdoor activities while the haze persists. The Penang Education Department is monitoring conditions and may issue further instructions if readings reach 200 or higher. The wider haze has affected many locations across Peninsular Malaysia. Authorities use the API to guide public-health advice, with readings above 200 classified as very unhealthy. People with respiratory conditions, young children and older adults are generally more vulnerable when pollution levels rise. What it means for foreigners in MalaysiaForeign residents and visitors in Penang should reduce strenuous outdoor activity, particularly if they have asthma or other breathing conditions. Keep doors and windows closed where practical, use an air purifier if available, and check the official APIMS readings before planning outdoor travel or exercise. 16.09.2026
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