Air quality nationwide has improved as of 1pm today, with only Pasir Gudang in Johor still recording an unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) reading of 106 compared to 105 this morning.

According to the Department of Environment’s (DOE) portal, 31 areas recorded moderate API readings including Larkin Lama (89); Kota Tinggi (87); Port Klang (80); Bukit Rambai (74); Bandaraya Melaka (72); Shah Alam (69); Petaling Jaya and Cheras, Kuala Lumpur (each recorded 67).

An API reading of 0 to 50 indicates good air quality; 51 to 100, moderate; 101 to 200, unhealthy; 201 to 300, very unhealthy; and 300 and above, hazardous.

The public can access apims.doe.gov.my for updates.

Meanwhile, it was reported that the Education Ministry will not hesitate taking legal action against quarters responsible for disseminating false information through the social media on closure of schools due to the haze.

Its minister, Mahdzir Khalid, said besides investigations by the ministry’s legal adviser, the ministry would also seek the assistance of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).

“So far, there are five to six cases involving dissemination of false information on the matter,” he told a media conference at the Parliament lobby in Kuala Lumpur today.

Mahdzir urged the cooperation of media practitioners, especially of the social media, to not play up the issue on school closure due to the haze as it could create confusion.

“Due to the many statements which are confusing, we (ministry) have to open a special counter and wait for people to come or telephone to clarify the matter. This should not happen,” he added.

Therefore, he advised parents and teachers to refer to statements on school closure which were issued only by reliable sources, like the ministry’s official website.

- Bernama