Lubok Antu and Kanowit schools close as haze pushes API past 200

KUCHING, Sept 21 — All primary and secondary schools within the Lubok Antu and Kanowit District Education Offices have been temporarily closed due to deteriorating haze. The Sarawak Education Department (JPNS) announced this decision based on Air Pollutant Index (API) readings taken at 9am today, which recorded 'very unhealthy' levels in Kanowit (212) and Lubok Antu (207).

"Home-Based Teaching and Learning (PdPR) will be implemented during the closure in accordance with the Ministry of Education’s Circular Letter No. 8 of 2016," said the department. For schools in areas with API readings above 200, headmasters and principals may also opt for PdPR, considering pupil health and safety. Should the API trend improve and drop below 200, headmasters and principals can prepare for schools to reopen.

JPNS advises schools to adhere to the Ministry of Education Circular Letter No. 1 of 2019 guidelines on health and safety, as well as guidelines on outdoor activities during hot weather, monitoring API readings through the Department of Environment’s Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) portal. Education institutions must also follow the Ministry of Health's recommendations to protect the health of pupils and education personnel.