As haze conditions persist across several regions in Malaysia, many residents are taking additional precautions to safeguard indoor air quality beyond simply staying indoors and closing windows. Concerns have heightened among families with young children, elderly members, and individuals with respiratory conditions due to the impact of polluted air.

Afiqah Idris, a 30-year-old private-sector worker diagnosed with asthma, described how the haze has led to more frequent nebulisation treatments. Although she initially believed that remaining inside with windows closed offered sufficient protection, she now questions the cleanliness of indoor air. To mitigate symptoms, Afiqah uses an air purifier at home and pays closer attention to maintaining her air conditioner, emphasizing the importance of ventilation alongside mechanical purification.

Health authorities have encouraged the public to minimize outdoor exposure, keep windows closed, and where possible, utilize air-conditioning and high-efficiency air purifiers to filter fine particulate matter. The ministry identifies vulnerable groups—including children, older adults, and those with respiratory illnesses—as requiring particular caution.

Similarly, Iman Shafiq Mohamed, 41, who resides with his elderly mother, noted a change in household practices aimed at reducing her exposure to haze-induced pollutants. Despite keeping the windows shut, the family sometimes notices a smoke odor indoors during severe haze episodes. This experience has altered their previous assumption that simply staying indoors was adequate protection.

“I am actually very concerned about my mother’s condition,” he said, explaining the use of an air purifier as an additional measure. He stressed growing awareness that indoor air must be actively managed to ensure safety during haze events.

For families with infants, concerns run especially high. Alia Zahra, 36, whose baby has a history of respiratory problems, has prioritized limiting outdoor activity and maintaining clean indoor air through closed windows and the use of air purification devices. She also takes care to reduce indoor pollutant sources such as cooking fumes, incense, and mosquito coils, recognizing their potential impact on air quality.

Collectively, these responses underscore a broader shift among Malaysians toward more comprehensive strategies to protect indoor environments amid recurrent haze episodes. While staying indoors remains a primary recommendation, many households are integrating air purifiers and vigilant maintenance of ventilation systems to enhance protection against air pollution’s health risks.