Johor to close schools if API exceeds 200 threshold

BATU PAHAT: Johor will close schools if the Air Pollutant Index (API) reading surpasses 200, becoming the second state after Selangor to set the threshold due to deteriorating air quality, according to Johor Education and Information Committee chairman Dr Muhammad Naqib Md Ghazali. Yesterday, all districts recorded unhealthy API readings, prompting the state to intensify monitoring.

After visiting SMK Suria Jaya in Parit Yaani, Dr Naqib confirmed that district education offices and schools will be responsible for keeping API data updated and ensuring parents receive timely information, as readings can fluctuate throughout the day. Existing standard operating procedures permit schools to limit outdoor activities when air quality is unsuitable, and the education minister's guidelines already require suspending outdoor activities when API readings exceed 100.

Dr Naqib emphasized the importance of parents monitoring API readings, having children wear face masks outdoors, and providing ample drinking water to schools during the haze and hot, dry weather.