Johor to shut schools statewide if API hits 200, as four districts already above 100

BATU PAHAT, Sept 7 — The Education and Information Committee chairman of Johor, Dr Muhammad Naqib Md Ghazali, has announced that the state will close all schools, kindergartens, and childcare centers if the Air Pollutant Index (API) reading goes above 200 due to deteriorating haze conditions. Several districts are currently reporting unhealthy API readings, with Segamat and Batu Pahat at 157, Tangkak at 153, and Kluang at 151.

Dr. Naqib made these statements during a visit to SMK Suria Jaya in Parit Yaani. The education department is prepared to enforce school closures under existing protocols should the API exceed the threshold. Schools are also keeping a close eye on outdoor activities amid the hot weather and haze, with the department empowered to limit such activities when necessary.

If the need arises, the department will take immediate action to reduce outdoor activities. The state's education authorities have been instructed to inform parents, students, and teachers about the API readings.