Malaysia’s education ministry said schools and education institutions would be required to close if API readings exceeded 180 or remained above 150 for three consecutive days, The Star reported on Thursday.
The ministry’s director-general Mohd Azam Ahmad said they had heeded the Malaysian king’s advice to close schools in affected areas, particularly where API readings have remained between 150 and 180 for prolonged periods.
“The ministry expresses its appreciation for the concern and decree of His Majesty regarding the safety and health of students following the haze affecting the country,” he said in a statement on Thursday.
Meanwhile, Mohd Azam said that affected schools and educational institutions under the ministry were required to conduct home-based learning.
“During this period, schools must ensure the continuity of students’ teaching and learning through appropriate methods, taking into consideration students’ capabilities, access and needs, as well as teachers’ preparedness.
“Teachers and members of the support staff group are also allowed to work from home throughout the closure period,” said Mohd Azam.
“The ministry will continue to monitor developments from time to time and seek advice from the Health Ministry and relevant agencies to ensure the safety, health and welfare of students and education personnel are protected,” he said.
SCHOOLS IN JOHOR CLOSE FOR TWO DAYS
All schools in Johor were closed for two days from Thursday as a precautionary measure to safeguard the health and safety of students.
