KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 25 — With lunchtime approaching, Gerai Masakan Panas Che Daud in Taman Sri Rampai would normally be preparing for the midday crowd. But at 11.40am, stall owner Che Daud Che Isa had just one customer to attend to.

The 59-year-old said business had slowed since the haze began, with some customers choosing to pack their food and eat at home rather than sit down at his stall.

He estimated that customer numbers had fallen by about half, as worsening air quality appeared to discourage people from eating out.

“My stall is facing some problems now. Perhaps it is because of the haze and people are afraid to come out, so the number of customers has decreased.