Haze: Schools, educational institutions in Johor to close for another five days from tomorrow

Johor, Malaysia has extended the closure of schools and educational institutions for an additional five days, starting from October 19, due to ongoing haze issues. State Education and Information Committee chairman Dr Muhammad Naqib Md Ghazali announced this decision following a meeting of the Johor Haze Management Coordination Committee.

The decision hinges on the state of air quality, weather forecasts, and ongoing health assessments. The Air Pollutant Index (API) readings are currently high, with no significant improvement predicted. The closure aligns with the Johor Regent's directive to prioritize safety and health. Throughout the closure, Teaching and Learning at Home (PdPR) will continue, as per the Ministry of Education's guidelines.

However, students who are taking examinations and assessments may be exceptions, subject to coordination with the Johor Education Department, with strict adherence to health standard operating procedures (SOPs). The state government is closely monitoring the situation, with the JPNJ reviewing the SOPs daily based on MOE directives and updates from the Examination Board.

Private educational institutions (IPS) and childcare centres will operate at their discretion, but they must follow the guidelines, including wearing face masks in enclosed spaces. Public health authorities have warned of the health risks associated with prolonged air pollution exposure, particularly for children and vulnerable groups.

In October, the state recorded 30,648 cases of asthma and upper respiratory tract infections (URTI), reflecting a 20.7% weekly increase. The government previously closed schools for two days, but has now extended the closure to cover educational institutions for another five days starting from October 12.