Bintulu: A total of 54 primary schools and nine secondary schools in Bintulu Division, encompassing the Bintulu and Tatau/Sebauh districts, will close from September 7 to 11 due to haze conditions. Home-Based Teaching and Learning (PdPR) will be implemented during this period.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Sarawak Education Department (JPNS) announced the school's closure following continuous monitoring and Air Pollutant Index (API) readings reaching very unhealthy levels at 8 pm today. The temporary closure affects 22,476 primary school students and 17,268 secondary school students under the Bintulu and Tatau/Sebauh District Education Offices (PPDs).

Data from the Department of Environment's (DOE) Malaysian Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) indicated that Bintulu recorded an API reading of 206 as of 8 pm today. In total, 617 primary schools affecting 130,953 students and 93 secondary schools involving 107,350 students across 14 PPDs in Sarawak have been closed due to the cross-border haze.

The JPNS statement confirmed that Home-Based Teaching and Learning (PdPR) will be carried out during the closure. The department also emphasized that updates or changes will be communicated as needed, urging schools to adhere to standard operating procedures and prioritize the health of students and teachers.

Educational institutions are advised to regularly check APIMS for API levels in their areas or districts and to follow recommendations from the Ministry of Health to protect the health of students and education personnel.