[Update] The haze is back again as Malaysians once more get afflicted with breathing difficulties, irritated eyes and low visibility. Updating this guide from 2023, somethings have changed as APIMS is now MyEQMS and the app is now MyJAS EQMS but for now, here's how to check or monitor the Haze (Air Pollution) in Malaysia online or on your phone in 2025.
Previously, the Department of Environment stated that all outdoor activities should be avoided when the Air Pollutant Index or API reaches above 100 and schools would be closed if it reached above 200. However, the Malaysian Department of Environment's air monitoring stations are still located throughout the country.
These provide hourly readings of the Air Pollution in that area. While they don't cover each and every specific location, they do provide a rough idea as to the quality of air around them so we as Malaysians can make better decisions.
How to check Malaysia's API or Air Pollution Index online
Here's how to check Malaysia's air pollution index on a desktop or PC device:
- Go to the Department of Environment's MyEQMS site
- Double-click on the map to find your location or click on the target icon and allow the site to get your location
- Check the API reading of the nearest station
The EQMS site now seems to load best for desktops or PCs and may have some problems loading quickly on mobile
How to check Malaysia's API or Air Pollution with your phone
Here's how to check Malaysia's air pollution index quickly from your phone
- Download and install the MyJAS EQMS app for Android or iOS
- Open the app and check the API reading at the nearest station
Thankfully, the MyJAS EQMS app for Android loads very quickly on mobile
How to deal with haze
Here are some general precautions and advice on handling the haze:
- Wear a face mask that can filter fine particles like an N95 respirator mask or surgical facemask when outdoors
- Avoid going outdoors
- Drink lots of water and stay hydrated
- Wash your hands and face regularly
- Go see a doctor if your eye irritation, breathing or other haze affliction gets worse
Although schools may be ordered to close after exceeding an API of 200, this actually also applies to Malaysians who work outdoors. The Department of Environment even has Guidelines for the Protection of Employees Against the Effects of Haze at Workplaces along with steps on how to deal with Haze at their site. So, if you're looking for some official haze references to advise your boss, then you know where to go.
Fortunately, many of us can now work remotely, so there are options to get work done online if the haze in Malaysia does get worse. You can also check the Regional Haze Situation from the ASMC (ASEAN SPECIALIZED METEOROLOGICAL CENTRE) site, which provides hotspot and wind direction information from around the region.
What do you think about the haze? We're definitely not fans, that's for sure, but do share your thoughts in the comments below. If you've found online resources or apps that can help monitor the haze that we didn't list, then do feel free to share as well. As always, stay tuned to TechNave.com for more articles like this.
You can check for regional hotspots at the ASMC site
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