The haze has moved north, causing Ipoh in Perak and Seberang Jaya in Penang to have an unhealthy level of air quality this evening.

According to the Department of Environment’s website, the Air Pollutant Index (API) reading recorded at 3 pm in Ipoh was 104, while in Seberang Jaya, the API reading was 100.

In GEORGE TOWN, Penang Health, Welfare, Caring Community and Environment Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh said the state government was prepared to distribute 200,000 face masks to the people in the state, with priority to be given to schoolchildren, expectant mothers, motorcyclist and pillion riders.

Phee also advised the public to reduce outdoor activity and to use public transportation to reduce air pollution.

“The public are also advised to drink a lot of water during this period and seek immediate medical if they experience sore throats, coughing and breathing difficulties,” he told reporters.

Thirty-six other areas recorded moderate API readings, including Seri Manjung (93), Cheras (89), Putrajaya and Batu Muda (60), and Shah Alam (70).

Fifteen areas recorded good API readings including in Sabah, Sarawak and Johor.

Based on the air quality index, reading of between 0-50 is categorised as good, 51 to 100 (moderate), 101-200 (unhealthy), 201 to 300 (very unhealthy), and 300 and above hazardous.

via Haze moves north, air quality in Ipoh, Seberang Jaya unhealthy | Astro Awani.