Kuala lumpur: Schools nationwide that record Air Pollutant Index (API) readings exceeding 200 can be closed at the discretion of principals or headmasters, based on advice from State Education Departments and District Education Offices. Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh highlighted this guideline, emphasizing the Ministry of Education's (MOE) commitment to student safety.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the MOE has standing Circulars on haze management dating back to 2016, with subsequent updates in 2019 and 2023. Wong stated that education authorities are tasked with regularly monitoring haze conditions and API readings, while school administrators are responsible for decision-making based on local conditions.

Wong outlined that if API readings surpass 100, schools are required to suspend outdoor activities and gatherings. Additionally, outdoor sports events should be postponed to ensure the well-being of students. He conveyed this information to reporters following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Toyo Tyre Malaysia and UniMAP.

In response to concerns about several areas recording unhealthy API readings recently, Wong affirmed the ministry's ongoing efforts to monitor the haze situation through State Education Departments and District Education Offices, prioritizing the health and safety of students.