Penang Considers Postponing or Halting Outdoor Activities Due to Air Quality

The Penang state government is contemplating whether to postpone or halt certain activities, particularly outdoor ones, if the Air Pollution Index (API) in the state deteriorates to worse levels. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow stated that while API readings in Penang are currently at a moderate level, continuous monitoring is underway.

The state government is actively seeking the latest information from the State Secretary's Office and the Department of Environment regarding the air quality. "Any further action will depend on the API readings and the development of the current situation. If it reaches a more critical level, I think advice should be issued to postpone or stop certain activities," Chow said.

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Any further action will depend on the API readings and the development of the current situation. If it reaches a more critical level, I think advice should be issued to postpone or stop certain activities.

The region is experiencing a worsening haze phenomenon, with 12 areas recording high API readings. This is attributed to the Super El Niño phenomenon and forest fires in Indonesia. This morning, API readings in Penang were reported to be nearing the 100 mark.

Chow added that the state government will continue to consider reports and advice from the Department of Environment before making any control decisions. "I will issue a statement later. It is too complex for me to explain now. I have just communicated with the State Secretary regarding the Department of Environment's report and related matters. So, we ask our office to issue a statement regarding the API readings in Penang," he stated.

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I will issue a statement later. It is too complex for me to explain now. I have just communicated with the State Secretary regarding the Department of Environment's report and related matters. So, we ask our office to issue a statement regarding the API readings in Penang.