{
  "id": 12594297,
  "title": "Higher Education Ministry says institutions given autonomy to adjust learning mode when API exceeds 201",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/07/higher-education-ministry-says-institutions-given-autonomy-to-adjust",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-07T09:01:19.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Malay Mail",
    "slug": "malay-mail",
    "url": "https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/10/07/higher-education-ministry-says-institutions-given-autonomy-to-adjust-learning-mode-when-api-exceeds-201/238120"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "On October 7, the Higher Education Ministry (MOHE) announced that educational institutions in areas with Air Pollutant Index (API) readings surpassing 201 now have the freedom to select appropriate teaching and learning methods. The aim is to mitigate health risks for students while maintaining the continuity of their education. In a statement, the MOHE disclosed that they are closely monitoring air quality, mandating all institutions under their jurisdiction to observe API readings in their specific regions. Outdoor activities are to be assessed and modified based on the latest readings. The ministry recommended IPT communities to consult official information from the Department of Environment (DOE) and adhere to the guidelines issued by their respective institutions. The MOHE reiterated its commitment to monitor the situation and adjust IPT operations to prioritize the health, well-being, and welfare of all members. According to the DOE's Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) portal, 35 areas recorded unhealthy API readings as of 10 am on the day of the report. Among these, Batu Pahat and Johan Setia in Johor, Cheras in Kuala Lumpur, Nilai in Negeri Sembilan, and Putrajaya recorded the highest readings at 190, 189, 189, 189, and 187 respectively. The API readings scale ranges from zero to 50, indicating good air quality, 51 to 100 for moderate, 101 to 200 for unhealthy, 201 to 300 for very unhealthy, and above 300 as hazardous.",
  "summary": "PUTRAJAYA, Oct 7 — Higher education institutions (IPTs) in areas recording Air Pollutant Index (API) readings...",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "The Peninsula Qatar",
        "title": "Awqaf Ministry registers waqf bequest to support Quran education centres",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/07/awqaf-ministry-registers-waqf-bequest-to-support-quran-education",
        "published": "2026-10-07T06:09:07.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}