Island, Malaysia
Air quality in Penang
Polluted
The annual average PM2.5 in Penang was 21 µg/m³ in 2019, about 4.2 times the WHO guideline of 5 µg/m³. Regional haze from Sumatra fires can affect Aug–Oct; air is otherwise fine.
Key facts
- PM2.5: 21 µg/m³ yearly average (2019). Measured at Pulau pinang.
- PM10: 29 µg/m³ (2019).
- Worst months: Aug–Oct.
Air quality across Malaysia
| Place | PM2.5 | Level |
|---|---|---|
| Kota Kinabalu | 15 µg/m³ | Moderate |
| Penang | 21 µg/m³ | Polluted |
| Malacca | 25 µg/m³ | Polluted |
| Kuala Lumpur | 28.3 µg/m³ | Very polluted |
Quick answers
Is the air in Penang bad?
Polluted: 21 µg/m³ of PM2.5 on average, 4.2× the WHO guideline. It's usually worst in Aug–Oct.
When is the air worst in Penang?
Regional haze from Sumatra fires can affect Aug–Oct; air is otherwise fine.
How does Penang compare with the rest of Malaysia?
People in Malaysia breathe 16 µg/m³ of PM2.5 on average (2023, World Bank/WHO), against 21 µg/m³ measured here.
More about Penang
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Sources
- WHO Ambient Air Quality Database
- WHO air quality guidelines (2021)
- Live air quality map (WAQI)
- Rapid Penang
- Penang Ferry (Penang Port)
- Penang International Airport
- Gleneagles Hospital Penang
- Penang tourism board (Penang Global Tourism)
Annual averages are measured values reported to the WHO; check a live map for today's air. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.