Jakarta:Universiti Malaya Universiti Malaya (UM) has announced a shift to hybrid teaching and learning starting Monday, October 12, as a precautionary measure due to the haze affecting the country.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, UM Vice-Chancellor Datuk Seri Prof Dr Noor Azuan Abu Osman emphasized that this decision aims to prioritize the health, safety, and wellbeing of the campus community while ensuring that academic activities continue without disruption.

The Vice-Chancellor noted that hybrid learning would allow lessons to proceed flexibly, accommodating current conditions and students' needs without compromising on health. He also recommended that outdoor activities be temporarily postponed to minimize exposure to the haze. For activities that must continue, he advised that risk assessments and appropriate control measures be implemented based on prevailing conditions.

Campus members are encouraged to take health precautions, such as reducing outdoor activities and wearing N95 masks when outside, especially if air quality deteriorates further. Noor Azuan assured that UM will closely monitor the situation, periodically reviewing the effectiveness of its measures to protect the campus community's interests and welfare. Any updates or further instructions will be shared through the university's official channels.

As of this morning, 37 areas reported unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings, with Seremban in Negeri Sembilan registering the highest at 186.