Oct 8 2026
Haze in Malaysia: causes, API levels and how to stay safe
by Venus Low
The current haze in Malaysia is mainly caused by smoke drifting from fires in Kalimantan and Sumatra. Malaysia’s Department of Environment reported that hot and dry conditions allowed moderate to thick smoke to spread across the region. Haze levels differ by location and can change with the wind and rainfall.
What is the latest API reading in Malaysia?
The latest API reading in Malaysia is available on the official APIMS map, which is updated hourly. Readings differ by location, so check the monitoring station nearest to you. Refer to the official APIMS map before planning outdoor activities. Avoid relying on old screenshots or previously published readings because air quality can change throughout the day.
How long will the haze in Malaysia last?
There is no fixed date for the haze to end. It depends on wind direction, rainfall and fire activity in the region. According to The Star’s report on the haze outlook, MetMalaysia expected the haze to begin easing from 9 October 2026 as Malaysia entered the wetter inter-monsoon period. However, conditions can change and haze levels may differ between locations. Check the latest METMalaysia weather outlook and official APIMS map before planning outdoor activities.
Why is it still hazy after the rain?
Rain can temporarily remove some particles from the air, but it may not clear the haze completely. Short or light rain may have a limited effect, while wind can bring more smoke into the area after the rain stops. If fires in Sumatra or Kalimantan are still burning, winds can carry more smoke into Malaysia after the rain stops.
The API may also remain high because some pollutant readings are calculated using a 24-hour average. This means reading may take time to fall even when the air starts to improve.
How to read the Air Pollutant Index in Malaysia
Malaysia’s API shows the highest sub-index among the measured air pollutants at each station. It is not a simple average of every pollutant. Some pollutant readings also use longer averaging periods, so the API may take time to reflect a sudden change.
| API reading | Air quality | What most people should do |
| 0 to 50 | Good | Continue normal activities |
| 51 to 100 | Moderate | Continue normal activities and watch for symptous |
| 101 to 150 | Unhealthy for sensitive groups | Reduce strenuous outdoor activity |
| 151 to 200 | Unhealthy | Reduce strenuous outdoor activity and spend less time outside. |
| 201 to 300 | Very unhealthy | Avoid strenuous outdoor activity and spend less time outside |
| Above 300 | Hazardous | Avoid outdoor activity |
Children, older adults, pregnant women, outdoor workers and people with heart or lung conditions have a higher risk of breathing problems and other health effects during haze. They should limit their exposure and follow medical advice.
How to stay safe during haze
1. Check the nearest APIMS station
The Air Pollutant Index Management System, or APIMS, is Malaysia’s official platform for checking air quality. It provides hourly API readings from monitoring stations across the country.
Use the reading from the station nearest to your location instead of relying on a national average. Check it again before exercising, travelling, going to school or working outdoors because conditions can change throughout the day.
2. Reduce hard outdoor exercise
When the API is between 101 and 200, the air quality is unhealthy. Shorten or outdoor activities such as running, football, and outdoor training. Move the activity indoors if the indoor air is cleaner.
When the API is between 201 and 300, the air quality is very unhealthy. Avoid strenuous outdoor activity, while higher-risk people should avoid all outdoor activity. When the API is above 300, the air quality is hazardous. Everyone should avoid outdoor activity, and higher-risk people should remain indoors.
3. Wear a suitable mask when needed
A surgical mask can help with droplets, but it does not adequately filter the smallest haze particles. A correctly fitted N95 respirator offers better protection when outdoor exposure cannot be avoided.
The mask must seal closely around the face. Facial hair can break the seal. N95 respirators can also make breathing harder, so people with heart or lung conditions should seek medical advice if they feel unwell or are unsure whether one is suitable.
4. Keep indoor air cleaner
Close doors and windows when the outdoor air is poor. Avoid smoking, burning candles or incense indoors. When driving, keep the windows closed and use the air recirculation setting.
If you are thinking of buying an air purifier, choose one that suits the size of the room. One unit may not be enough for the whole house. Check how long the filter lasts, how often it needs replacing and how much a replacement costs. You should also check the warranty and after-sales service.
5. Support people who face higher risks
Children, older adults, pregnant people and those with asthma, chronic lung disease or heart disease may need to reduce exposure sooner.
Keep prescribed medicine available. Do not stop or change treatment without advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
How TNG eWallet can help during haze
Pay bills and reload your mobile from home
Use bills and mobile reload in TNG eWallet to check supported billers and prepaid services. Confirm the account number, amount and recipient before payment. This can reduce unnecessary trips when outdoor air is poor. Availability depends on the biller or mobile provider shown in the app.
Pay for essentials online where supported
You may be able to buy items such as masks or an air purifier online and pay with TNG eWallet when the retailer offers a compatible payment option. Check the seller, product details, certification, room size and return policy before paying. Review the supported TNG eWallet payment methods before placing an order.
Find nearby food with Near Me
Use Near Me in TNG eWallet to discover nearby restaurants. You can check their location, opening hours, contact details and reviews before leaving home. Call the restaurant to confirm whether you can order for collection. If the restaurant accepts TNG eWallet, you can pay using the app when collecting your food.
Check the API before going out
Make the latest local API reading part of your daily plan during haze. Reduce exposure when air quality worsens, help higher-risk family members prepare and follow official health and school updates. Check the APIMS map before your next outdoor activity.
FAQs
Does haze mean bad air quality?
Yes. Haze can make the air unhealthy, but the risk depends on the API level in your area.
How to stay safe in haze?
Check out the latest API on APIMS, reduce outdoor activities when the air is unhealthy, close windows and wear mask if you need to go outside.
What API level is unhealthy in Malaysia?
An API from 101 to 200 is unhealthy. Reduce strenuous outdoor activity. Children, older adults and people with heart or lung conditions should take stronger precautions and limit exposure.
