Fadhlina: Schools cannot close for days as haze fluctuates

GEORGE TOWN: Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek has called for flexible school closures during haze episodes, as air quality fluctuates according to time and location. Recognizing parents' concerns over daily closures, Fadhlina explained that she seeks early communication of such decisions to enable parents to make necessary preparations.

She emphasized that haze management necessitates coordinated efforts, with the Department of Environment monitoring air quality, while the Health Ministry provides health guidance and the Education Ministry focuses on student safety and school operations.

Fadhlina highlighted the significant repercussions of school disruptions on children's education, drawing parallels to the Covid-19 pandemic. She noted that lost classroom time is challenging to recover, particularly because home-based teaching and learning (PdPR) facilities vary among pupils. Boarding school students would be advised to stay in hostels during closures if conditions remain safe and their welfare is assured, preventing repeated collection and return of students by parents.

The Education Ministry will continue monitoring the situation across state and district education offices, while improving information delivery to parents. Fadhlina expressed gratitude for parents' feedback and patience as Malaysia navigates the haze situation.