The environment department said that as of 3pm, 38 areas in Peninsular Malaysia recorded unhealthy API levels, while 30 recorded moderate readings and none recorded good air quality.

PETALING JAYA: The environment department has urged the public not to rely on independent websites or apps for air quality readings in Malaysia, saying its Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) is the government’s official reference.

It said it was aware that some independent websites and apps displayed air quality index (AQI) readings that were sometimes higher than Malaysia’s air pollutant index (API) readings.

“The difference does not necessarily indicate a contradiction or that pollution levels have been understated.