Serian’s air quality remains unhealthy as haze worsens across Malaysia

SERIAN, 29 SEPTEMBER 2026 —

Serian in Sarawak recorded an Air Pollution Index (API) of 153 at 11am today, remaining the only station in Malaysia in the "unhealthy" range, according to the latest data from the Air Pollution Index Management System (APIMS).

The haze has spread rapidly, pushing multiple areas in Peninsular Malaysia into the unhealthy category, with 27 locations across the country now affected. In the Klang Valley, Johan Setia recorded the highest API reading in West Malaysia at 161, followed by Cheras (158), Shah Alam (156), and Putrajaya (154). The Department of Environment (DoE) reported that Batu Muda in Kuala Lumpur stood at 100—just one point shy of the unhealthy threshold.

Southern Peninsular Malaysia bore the brunt of the pollution, with Johor’s Pasir Gudang (169) and Larkin (168) registering the highest readings in West Malaysia. Other affected areas included Nilai (164), Melaka city (164), and Rompin (152). Meanwhile, Kuching in Sarawak remained the highest in the "moderate" category at 89, down from 158 earlier in the day, while Langkawi (34) and Tanah Merah (35) retained the lowest readings nationwide.

The haze has forced authorities to advise residents in affected areas to reduce outdoor physical activity and take precautions to mitigate health risks. The DoE’s API classification ranges from "good" (0–50) to "hazardous" (above 300), with the current spike primarily driven by transboundary smoke from Indonesian fires. Malaysia’s national air quality status shows only one station in the "unhealthy" range, while 61 others remain in the "moderate" category.

The worsening haze has raised concerns among businesses and policymakers, particularly in industrial hubs like Johor and Selangor, where prolonged exposure to poor air quality can disrupt operations and public health. The Department of Environment has yet to issue an official statement on mitigation measures, though transboundary haze coordination with Indonesia remains a priority.

Industrial and logistics sectors in southern Malaysia, including ports in Johor and manufacturing clusters in Selangor, may face operational disruptions if air quality deteriorates further. The haze has historically impacted tourism and agriculture, particularly in East Malaysia, where palm oil plantations and eco-tourism rely on clear skies. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely, with potential interventions including cross-border diplomatic efforts to curb Indonesian fire hotspots.

Related: Department of Environment · Serian