Melaka:Tourist attractions in Banda Hilir continue to draw crowds of local and international visitors despite Melaka experiencing unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings caused by haze since Thursday.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, popular sites such as the Stadthuys and Jonker Walk remain bustling with activity, with shops selling souvenirs and handicrafts operating as usual. However, few tourists and traders have been seen wearing face masks to protect themselves from the poor air quality.

Asmah Zulkifli, a visitor from Kuala Lumpur, mentioned that the haze did not deter her group from visiting Melaka’s tourist attractions following a friend's wedding in Bukit Katil. She observed that despite the haze, the area is vibrant with many visitors.

Trishaw peddler Muhammad Azhan Fikry Munawir noted that tourism activities are still lively in the area, with tour groups continuing to visit. He remarked that the public may not perceive the haze's impact as severely as COVID-19, although trishaw peddlers, who spend more time outdoors, need to be cautious.

Souvenir trader Amalina Zulkifli echoed that the haze has not significantly affected tourist numbers at the UNESCO World Heritage Site. She observed that the number of tourists was slightly lower the previous day, likely due to it being a working day and higher API readings.

The Malaysian Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) reported that, as of 5 pm today, while API readings in Melaka have declined compared to yesterday, they remain in the unhealthy range. Alor Gajah and Bandaraya Melaka recorded an API of 164, and Bukit Rambai recorded 163.