Six schools in Sarawak shift to online learning as haze hits ‘very unhealthy’ levels

Six schools in Sarawak's Tebedu district have been temporarily closed due to hazardous haze conditions, with the Air Pollutant Index (API) reading in the area exceeding 200. The Sarawak Education Department (JPNS) cited the safety, health, and wellbeing of students and staff as the reason for the precautionary measure, following the Education Ministry’s (MOE) guidelines.

The schools impacted are SK Sejijag, SK Sungai Sameran, SK Tepoi, SK Entubuh, SK Temong, and SK Tema. These schools are under the Serian District Education Office (Serian PPD). The JPNS emphasized that schools must close immediately once the API reading in their area or district surpasses 200, as per MOE Circular No. 1 of 2019. Home-based teaching and learning (PdPR) will continue online during the temporary closure, and schools are required to inform the PPD and JPNS about the closure for coordination, monitoring, and record-keeping purposes.

The department also stressed the importance of schools maintaining communication with parents and guardians while prioritizing the health and welfare of students throughout the closure. The reopening of schools will be determined by the latest API readings, prevailing conditions, and directives or guidelines in force, with the safety and wellbeing of students and education personnel remaining the top priority.