Sarawak extends school closures in Serian, Lubok Antu until haze improves

Sarawak's temporary school closures in Serian and Lubok Antu districts have been extended until the Air Pollutant Index (API) readings fall below 200, according to a statement from the Sarawak State Education Department (JPNS). The decision was made based on continuous monitoring of API readings through the Department of Environment’s official portal and reports from the Malaysian Meteorological Department.

All primary and secondary schools under the supervision of 12 District Education Offices will operate as usual from Monday, with any changes announced periodically. The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Agency, will soon distribute face masks to students, teachers, and staff at severely affected schools.

The department emphasized the priority of students' welfare, health, and safety, particularly in hot weather or unexpected weather conditions. Schools are reminded to take appropriate measures if the API reading exceeds 100 or 200, and may remain closed if it exceeds 500. Parents and guardians may keep their children at home if they are concerned about their health due to the haze, but must inform the schools of their decision.

Brief written by urgent.news from Malay Mail's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.