Groups want earlier notice, clearer guidelines on haze-related school closures

Civil society groups in Malaysia have called for earlier announcements and clearer guidelines regarding school closures due to haze. Melaka Action Group for Parents in Education (Magpie) has proposed that the education ministry provide the next day's school arrangements by noon on the preceding day, rather than waiting until the evening.

Magpie believes that earlier communication would assist parents in arranging childcare and transportation, while also giving teachers time to prepare lessons and alternative learning plans. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek defended the current approach to school closures, stating that closure decisions must take into account changing air quality and its impact on students' learning.

The ministry collaborates with other agencies, such as the environment department for air quality and the health ministry for guidance on health risks. However, Engage and Projek SAMA argue that the differing API thresholds and closure decisions during the recent haze episode in Johor have caused uncertainty. They question the authorization, criteria, and notice for final decisions on school closures.

Engage and Projek SAMA emphasize the need for transparent, science-based criteria that consider air quality, exposure duration, weather forecasts, indoor air conditions, and health risks. They also urge the government to establish a permanent National Haze Operations Room to coordinate between relevant ministries, agencies, and state governments.