Sarawak: Childcare centres (taska) in Sarawak will be closed immediately if the Air Pollutant Index (API) reaches 200, in line with the decision previously made by the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC). Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri announced this measure to protect children from exposure to haze, which could affect their health.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, on August 12, the SDMC stated that schools, kindergartens, and childcare centres would be closed immediately when the API reached 200, classified as the very unhealthy level. This decision is in accordance with the National Haze Action Plan and falls under the jurisdiction of the Sarawak Education Department director.

Nancy Shukri emphasized the importance of this directive, stating, "We do not want children, in particular, to be exposed to the haze as it could affect them and cause difficulties for their families." The directive is currently applicable in Sarawak but will be extended to other areas or states if the haze worsens and spreads. Any closure would be implemented comprehensively based on official directives from the respective state governments or relevant authorities to avoid confusion among the public.

Regarding concerns from working parents about potential childcare centre closures, Nancy stated that the matter would have to be managed by the respective state governments, as the directive falls under state jurisdiction.