Malaysia raises the threshold for haze-related school closures
Schools will now close in areas where the Air Pollutant Index (API) exceeds 200, while outdoor activities will be suspended when the readings reach 100 or above.
Malaysia has raised the threshold for closing schools due to haze-related air pollution. Schools will now close when the Air Pollutant Index (API) exceeds 200, while outdoor activities will be suspended when readings reach 100 or above. Previously, schools had to close if API readings exceeded 180, or stayed above 150 for three consecutive days.
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek announced the new guidelines on Wednesday (Oct 14), stating that the change aligns the ministry's guidelines with the National Haze Action Plan. Fadhlina emphasized that decisions on school closures should be made systematically, considering current conditions and health advice from the Ministry of Health.
She acknowledged parents' concerns about their children's health, particularly those with health issues or sensitivity to air pollution, and allowed parents to keep their children at home if they wish, while informing the school authorities. Fadhlina highlighted the importance of both health and educational continuity, encouraging a balanced approach to school operations during the haze.
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