Unicef calls for stronger measures to protect children from haze

Malaysia's nine million children are exposed to harmful fine particulate matter (PM2.5) during haze crises, often causing severe health issues, stated Unicef. The United Nations children's fund has urged stronger measures to safeguard children from the impacts of recurrent haze, such as ensuring access to healthcare, education, and assistance during school closures.

Sanja Saranovic, Unicef Malaysia's deputy representative, highlighted four priorities to enhance protection during haze episodes. These include assisting families in preparing, ensuring continuous learning, maintaining healthcare and social support access, and strengthening school and clinic readiness plans. Families should receive clear information on school closures and guidance on minimizing exposure to polluted air.

Schools should provide offline learning materials for children lacking devices or reliable internet access. Air purifiers could be considered in haze-prone schools, while low-cost air-quality monitors help assess local conditions and guide responses. Saranovic noted that while school closures are necessary to protect children from poor air quality, extended disruptions could negatively affect their learning and well-being, particularly for those without devices or internet access.

Schools also foster daily routines, trusted adult interactions, peer relationships, and essential meals for children. Addressing the haze crisis necessitates joint efforts by Malaysia and its neighbors to prevent forest and peatland fires, enhance air-quality monitoring, and ensure accountability among governments and businesses, while preserving affected communities' livelihoods.

Children cannot prevent fires, clear the air, or decide school reopenings; they depend on adults' actions and have a right to be heard in decision-making processes.