Haze, or jerebu, is a common problem in Malaysia when smoke and fine particles make the air unhealthy. It can irritate your eyes, nose, throat and lungs. It may be caused by open burning, forest fires, peat fires, vehicle emissions, industrial activity and regional smoke.

Common haze symptoms include:

• Itchy, red or watery eyes
• Runny nose and sneezing
• Dry or sore throat
• Coughing
• Headache
• Skin irritation
• Chest discomfort

During haze, many people ask:

• What does the API reading mean?
• What should I drink?
• Do supplements help?
• What should I keep at home?

This guide explains simple ways to stay safe during haze in Malaysia. Check the latest Air Pollutant Index (API) before exercising, travelling or spending time outdoors.

People with asthma, heart disease or lung conditions should take extra care and seek medical advice if symptoms worsen.

What do Malaysia API readings mean?

Malaysia uses the Air Pollutant Index (API), also known as IPU, to show air quality and possible health risks.

API readings can change throughout the day. Check the official Department of Environment API information before outdoor work, travel, school activities or exercise.

What Should You Drink During Haze?

Plain water is the best everyday choice during haze. Drink regularly, especially in hot weather, as haze can leave your throat feeling dry or irritated.

Coconut water can be a refreshing option to help support hydration. ORS may also help replace fluids and electrolytes when you are dehydrated due to vomiting, diarrhoea, heavy sweating or other fluid loss.

ORS is not needed routinely just because of haze. If you are unsure which drink is suitable, ask a pharmacist or healthcare professional.

Staying hydrated may soothe a dry throat, but drinks cannot remove haze particles from the lungs. Reducing outdoor exposure remains the most important protection.

Do supplements helps?

Supplements can be helpful when your diet does not provide enough of certain vitamins or minerals. Choose only those that meet your nutritional needs and follow the recommended dosage. Avoid taking multiple products with the same ingredients, as too much of a nutrient may cause unwanted effects. 

If you take medication or are unsure which supplement is right for you, talk to a healthcare professional first. Remember, supplements work best alongside a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle, not as a replacement for nutritious food. 

Helpful pharmacy products during haze 

A pharmacy can support customers with practical, symptom-focused products.

Is an N95 mask good for haze?

During haze, a properly fitted N95 respirator offers better protection against fine particles than a regular surgical mask. It should cover your nose and mouth snugly.

N95 respirators may feel harder to breathe through. Children, pregnant women, older adults and people with asthma, heart or lung conditions should ask a doctor or pharmacist if one is suitable.

Haze tips for children, older adults and people with asthma

Children, older adults and people with asthma should:

• Stay indoors when the API is unhealthy or worse.
• Avoid outdoor sports and strenuous activity.
• Keep windows and doors closed.
• Avoid cigarette smoke, incense and indoor burning.
• Keep prescribed medication nearby.
• Watch for worsening cough, wheezing or breathing difficulty.
• Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen.

Do not force children to wear a respirator if it causes discomfort or breathing problems.

How to keep indoor air cleaner during haze

• Close windows and doors when outdoor air quality is poor.
• Avoid smoking indoors.
• Avoid burning incense, candles or rubbish.
• Use your car air conditioner on recirculation mode when appropriate.
• Wipe dusty surfaces with a damp cloth.
• Keep food and drinking water covered.
• Limit activities that create dust indoors.

When should you see a doctor?

Get medical advice for persistent cough, wheezing, worsening asthma, chest discomfort, eye symptoms that do not improve or breathing difficulty.

Seek urgent medical help for severe breathlessness, chest pain, fainting, confusion or bluish lips.

Final Reminder

Stay safe during haze by checking the API, limiting outdoor activities, keeping indoor air clean and drinking enough water. If symptoms worsen, seek medical advice promptly.

HTM Pharmacy is here to support you and your family with practical haze essentials, including hydration drinks, ORS when needed, eye and saline care products, throat relief and suitable masks. Our team is happy to help you choose what is right for your needs.