Public perceptions of air pollution and its health impacts in Greater Kuala Lumpur

Abstract

Air pollution is a globally pervasive health hazard but the risks it poses can be overlooked by the public. To explore the significance of this problem in Greater Kuala Lumpur (KL), Malaysia, we conducted a survey of the public (n = 165). We found (1) an appreciation for the importance of motor vehicles as a source of air pollution; (2) little reported engagement with the official Air Pollution Index (API); (3) a lack of awareness of the long-term health effects of air pollution and (4) reports of a substantial impact of air pollution on day-to-day life. While our survey sample is not representative of the population of Greater KL, our findings are broadly consistent with those of others and underscore a need for improved communication to the public of risks posed by air pollution. Tightened standards underlying the Malaysian API and improved dissemination of real-time air quality updates may be important opportunities to achieve this.