{
  "id": 3150468,
  "title": "Penang schools halt outdoor activities when API exceeds 100",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/25/penang-schools-halt-outdoor-activities-when-api-exceeds-100",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-25T00:18:24.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/regional/2026/08/1518282/penang-schools-halt-outdoor-activities-when-api-exceeds-100"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Penang schools have suspended outdoor activities when the Air Pollutant Index (API) reaches or surpasses 100 due to increasing concerns over haze. The state Education Department emphasized the need for schools to close immediately if the API exceeds 200, which is consistent with existing guidelines. An API reading of 500 or higher prompts teachers and implementing group members to refrain from reporting to school, as per current regulations. As of 9pm yesterday, Penang joined 27 other locations in reporting unhealthy API levels. The department is actively monitoring haze conditions and API readings throughout Penang, prioritizing the safety, health, and well-being of students and education personnel. Schools have been directed to closely monitor official readings from the Department of Environment (DoE) and stay vigilant for haze warnings and updates. It is essential for schools to ensure students have access to adequate drinking water, promote sufficient water consumption, and minimize exposure to outdoor air. Schools must also prioritize students with pre-existing health issues or those exhibiting symptoms of illness, referring them to nearby health facilities and notifying their parents or guardians. Face masks are recommended as a precautionary measure. Schools are required to maintain open communication channels with parents and guardians to promptly convey changes to school operations or haze-related directives. School officials must report developments and actions taken to their respective district education offices and the state department to support monitoring and coordination efforts. Parents with concerns about their children's health due to haze should consult a medical professional and notify the school. The department will continue to monitor the situation and respond promptly based on API readings and directives from relevant authorities.",
  "summary": "GEORGE TOWN: Penang schools have been ordered to halt outdoor activities when the Air Pollutant Index (API) exceeds 100 amid heightened preparedness for haze.",
  "key_points": [
    "Penang schools suspend outdoor activities when API reaches 100 or higher",
    "API reading of 500 or higher stops teachers from reporting to school",
    "Schools monitor DoE readings, prioritize student health and safety"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "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."
}