Penang:The Penang State-Level National Sports Day 2026 celebration, originally set for this Saturday, has been postponed due to hazy conditions and an Air Pollutant Index (API) reading exceeding 100, considered unhealthy.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the decision was announced by State Youth, Sports, and Health Committee Chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen. The event, planned to take place at the Jalan Betek Sports and Recreation Complex in Central Seberang Perai, will be rescheduled, with a new date to be announced later.

The postponement aligns with the Haze Management Guidelines issued by the Ministry of Youth and Sports on October 8 last year. These guidelines require appropriate action when air quality reaches levels that could impact health. The Penang State-Level National Sports Day Main Committee considered current developments and API readings from relevant authorities before making this decision.

Gooi highlighted that mass sports and recreational activities in open areas could increase exposure to air pollution, especially with API readings at unhealthy levels. He acknowledged the inconvenience this may cause to participants, agencies, sports associations, and communities who have prepared for the event.

The Department of Environment's Malaysian Air Pollutant Index Management System reported unhealthy API readings in three areas in Penang today: Seberang Perai (156), Minden (155), and Seberang Jaya (153).