Batu Pahat:All schools, kindergartens, and childcare centres in the Batu Pahat district will close starting October 7 after the Air Pollutant Index (API) exceeded 200, reaching a 'very unhealthy' level.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Batu Pahat District Disaster Management Committee reported that the API reading was 203 as of 8 pm. The closures are mandated under the National Haze Action Plan and Ministry of Education (MOE) guidelines to ensure the health and safety of students and school staff.

Schools are instructed to conduct home-based teaching and learning (PdPR) if directed by the MOE, the Johor Education Department (JPNJ), or the Batu Pahat District Education Office (PPD). Schools must also inform parents or guardians about the PdPR arrangements, assignments, and communication channels through official school channels.

Reopening decisions will depend on updated air quality readings and directives from the authorities. The committee advises the public to seek information from the official channels of the Department of Environment, MOE, JPNJ, Batu Pahat PPD, and Batu Pahat District Office and to refrain from sharing unverified information.