Schools close when API reaches 200: ministry goes back to existing haze policy

Schools across several states have closed due to elevated air pollutant index (API) readings, as the education ministry reverts to its established haze policy. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek confirmed that schools will close when the API reaches 200, and outdoor activities must cease when readings exceed 100. This decision aligns with the guidance provided by the National Disaster Management Agency and the National Haze Action Plan.

The ministry aims to make decisions based on current conditions and advice from the health ministry, avoiding potential learning time loss due to API fluctuations. Parents may keep their children at home if they are concerned about health and safety, provided they inform the school. The safety and well-being of students remain the top priority, but Fadhlina emphasized the importance of school days for children's development and learning.

The 2019 policy dictates that schools close when the API reaches 200, subject to confirmation by the district disaster management committee. During the ongoing haze episode, the ministry implemented temporary closure thresholds, with schools in areas recording API readings above 180 to close, and those exceeding 150 for three consecutive days to close starting October 12.

As of the latest data, Johor is the most affected state, followed by several others, while the Klang Valley experienced API readings ranging from 160 to 182.