Haze: Johor schools to reopen in phases, starting with exam candidates

Johor, Malaysia - Schools in Johor, Malaysia will reopen gradually starting from Monday, with the initial phase focusing on students who are scheduled to take exams according to their timetable. This decision was made by the State Education and Information Committee chairman, Dr Muhammad Naqib Md Ghazali, in accordance with the decree of Johor's Regent, Tunku Mahkota Ismail, who prioritizes the safety, health, and well-being of the people.

The plan allows school administrators and teachers some time to prepare for the upcoming Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) and Ujian Akhir Sesi Akademik (UASA) examinations. The second phase, which includes the reopening of all schools in Johor, is set to begin on Wednesday, contingent on the air quality situation. Dr Naqib stated that the Johor State Education Department (JPNJ) will oversee the implementation of health and safety Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), including the use of face masks and monitoring of school activities, based on the current Air Pollution Index (API) values.

The state government and relevant agencies will continue to closely monitor the haze situation to ensure that any necessary actions can be taken based on the prevailing conditions. As of this afternoon, only two districts in Johor, Pasir Gudang and Batu Pahat, had API readings above the unhealthy threshold, specifically 154 and 127, respectively.