Schools in Johor to close on Oct. 8 & 9 following worsening haze conditions

All schools in Johor, Malaysia, will be closed for two days starting Oct. 8 to safeguard students' health amid worsening haze conditions and deteriorating air quality across the state.

According to the Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS), all eight areas in Johor recorded unhealthy readings as of 11am on Oct. 8, ranging from 162 to 188.

Johor Education and Information Committee chairman Muhammad Naqib Md Ghazali said the decision was made following a directive from Johor Regent Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, reported The Star.

“While this decision may req­uire some adjustment from everyone, under the current circumstances, the safety and health of children must be our shared priority,” he said.

Safeguard children's health

Naqib also urged parents and guar­dians to monitor their child­ren’s health, reduce outdoor activities and ensure they drink enough water.

“Seek immediate medical ­attention if they experience symptoms such as coughing, sore throat or breathing difficulties,” he said.

He also acknowledged the impact on parents who have to work and asked for the cooperation and consideration of employers in providing appropriate flexibility.

Meanwhile, schools will postpone assessments, subject to decisions by the Johor Education Department and relevant parties.

Home-based teaching and learning will be conducted during the two-day closure to ensure students can continue their lessons.

The state government and relevant agencies will continue monitoring the Air Pollutant Index (API) readings, Naqib said.