Haze: Education Ministry coordinating school operating procedures under new action plan

PUTRAJAYA, October 14 — The Ministry of Education (MOE) has initiated coordination of school operating procedures according to the National Haze Action Plan (PTJK). The aim is to ensure systematic decisions on school closures by considering Air Pollutant Index (API) readings and health recommendations. Education Minister Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek announced that outdoor activities would be postponed when API readings surpass 100, while schools would close when readings exceed 200, as per PTJK guidelines.

"We need to comprehend that API readings can fluctuate rapidly within a short timeframe," Fadhlina noted in a Facebook post today. "Prematurely shutting schools without considering these changes could lead to children losing valuable learning time once air quality improves." The minister expressed appreciation for the National Disaster Management Agency's (NADMA) emphasis on following PTJK for haze management, following consultations with relevant bodies.

Meanwhile, Fadhlina acknowledged the worries of parents who must await daily school operation decisions amid haze, particularly those with children susceptible to air pollution. Consequently, she stated that parents could keep their children home if they had health concerns, provided they inform school authorities. "The safety and well-being of our children remain our utmost priority," Fadhlina affirmed.

"Yet, every school day also holds significance for their growth and learning." She hoped that this coordination would offer parents greater assurance, alleviate their challenges, and ensure that each decision on school operations incorporates both children's health and education continuity in a balanced manner.