Air quality worsens in Miri as Cheras remains in unhealthy range

MIRI in Sarawak became the latest area in Malaysia to register unhealthy air quality this morning, as recorded by the Department of Environment’s Air Pollution Index Management System (APIMS).

As of 10am, Miri posted an Air Pollution Index (API) reading of 124, placing it in the ‘unhealthy’ category, which ranges from 101 to 200.

Meanwhile, air quality in Cheras continued to deteriorate, with API levels rising to 131—up from 124 at 8am.

Only six monitoring stations nationwide recorded ‘good’ air quality levels (API below 50). These include Balik Pulau (Penang), Kemaman (Terengganu), Tanah Merah (Kelantan), Langkawi (Kedah), Kangar (Perlis), and Pengerang (Johor).

A total of 60 stations recorded ‘moderate’ air quality, with API readings ranging between 51 and 100.

According to the Department of Environment, an API between 101 and 200 is considered unhealthy and may cause discomfort, especially among vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation and advise the public to reduce outdoor activities in affected areas. - July 27, 2025