Haze crisis worsens as unhealthy API readings force sweeping school closures in Putrajaya, Selangor and Rompin

PUTRAJAYA, Oct 9 — All education institutions in Putrajaya and Selangor have been forced to close due to worsening haze conditions, according to the Education Ministry. The decision comes in response to unhealthy Air Pollution Index (API) readings, which have prompted sweeping school closures across the three areas. The MOE's decision is based on the latest API readings recorded at monitoring stations, with the King's decree emphasizing the importance of protecting the health and safety of students.

In Shah Alam, Selangor, all MOE education institutions are set to close tomorrow, while Selangor's Islamic Religious Department has also announced the closure of all religious schools, urging private religious schools to follow suit. In Paohang, the state education department has instructed education institutions in Rompin to close for tomorrow, with a reminder for all institutions to monitor API readings and comply with guidelines from the MOE, Environmental Department, and Health Ministry.

The closure will allow for home-based learning, ensuring continuity for students, while teachers and implementors are permitted to work from home. Parents are advised to refer to official sources for further information. As of 3pm yesterday, 38 areas across Peninsular Malaysia reported unhealthy API readings, with the highest being 190 in Segamat, Johor, followed by 186 in Seremban and 185 in Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, 181 in Kluang, Johor, and 178 in Rompin, Pahang, and Johan Setia, Selangor.