Haze: Childcare centres advised to suspend outdoor activities

PUTRAJAYA: Childcare centre operators have been instructed to discontinue outdoor activities to shield children from the adverse effects of air pollution resulting from the prevailing haze across multiple regions in the country. The Women, Family and Community Development Ministry, via the Social Welfare Department, emphasized that childcare operations must consider real-time Air Pollutant Index (API) levels and comply with the National Haze Action Plan and official instructions.

In a recent announcement, the ministry urged all childcare centre (taska) operators to cease outdoor activities to minimize children's exposure to polluted air, while ensuring the environment remains secure and conducive for learning. If circumstances allow, operators and parents are encouraged to collaborate and devise appropriate care arrangements tailored to local conditions, family requirements, and the best interests of the children.

This strategy is vital to safeguarding children's well-being without compromising the needs of working parents. The ministry also called upon operators, parents, and the Department of Environment to remain vigilant about API readings and adhere to health recommendations and directives issued by relevant authorities. The well-being and health of children must remain the foremost consideration in every decision, stated the ministry.

It expressed optimism that strong collaboration and communication between operators and parents will continue to be essential in ensuring children receive adequate protection throughout the haze period.