Despite the coming monsoon season in November, the haze still remains, with several places around Malaysia registering unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) numbers today, including the Klang Valley.

According to the Department of Environment (DOE) website, among the worst hit areas in the Klang Valley included Port Klang, Selangor (119) and the administrative capital Putrajaya (109).

Despite the smoggy outlook that shrouds the Kuala Lumpur skyline, it was not listed among parts of the country that was worst hit by the haze.

As at 10am, the most affected areas of the haze were recorded in Negri Sembilan in Nilai (129) and Seremban (112).

Other areas in the country are still experiencing moderate haze.

Meanwhile, Bernama reports that he haze which hit several areas in Penang  yesterday has worsened with the Air Pollutant Index (API) approaching unhealthy levels.

As of 2pm today, the API in Perai rose to 85, Seberang Jaya rose to 86 and Universiti Sains Malaysia rose to 91 compared to 45-59 yesterday afternoon.

“I was informed that the air quality may improve tomorrow or Sunday as strong winds are expected to blow away the haze,” said state Welfare, Caring Society and Environment Committee chairperson Phee Boon Poh.

The public are urged to reduce outdoor activities, seek treatment if they suffer sore throat, cough or shortness of breath and drink lots of water.

An API reading of between zero and 50 indicates good air quality; between 51 and 100, moderate; between 101 and 200, unhealthy; between 201 and 300, very unhealthy and over 301, hazardous.  

Members of the public can refer to the DOE portal at http://www.doe.gov.my to find out the API reading for their areas.