GEORGE TOWN: Haze is back in Penang, casting grey over once-blue skies and reducing visibility in the region.

According to the Air Quality Index by IQ Air, areas such as Seberang Jaya and Simpang Ampat recorded readings of 125 and 104 respectively, falling into the "unhealthy for sensitive groups" category.

Other areas on the island recorded moderate levels ranging between 84 to 97.

Penang housing and environment committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu said the transboundary haze could be caused by a fire in northern Sumatra, Indonesia.

"There is a hotspot in north Sumatra detected by the Asean Specialised Meteorological Centre's satellite," he said.

However, Sundarajoo said the situation is still deemed safe with no immediate cause for concern.

"According to the Air Pollution Index (API) by the Department of Environment, readings still fall under the moderate level.

"The API reading in Seberang Jaya was 84, while it was 77 in Minden and 68 in Balik Pulau as of 11am this morning," he said.

Sundarajoo added that API readings have been stable over time and no hotspots have been detected in Penang this far.

He urged the public to drink plenty of water and avoid outdoor activities while the government monitors the situation closely.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/27/haze-returns-to-penang-but-situation-under-control-says-exco-man