Culture & Entertainment · Malaysia Bureau
Agong urges school closures as haze pollution reaches hazardous levels
His Majesty has called on the Education Ministry to shut schools in areas where air quality index readings exceed 150, citing health risks from deteriorating air quality. The directive underscores growing concerns over transboundary haze affecting the region.
LSN Malaysia ·
The Yang di-Pertuan Agong has issued a directive calling for immediate school closures in areas experiencing hazardous air quality, as regional haze conditions intensify across Malaysia. His Majesty emphasised that educational institutions in zones registering Air Pollutant Index (API) readings of 150 and above should suspend operations to protect students and staff from health risks associated with poor air quality.
The intervention represents a significant escalation in the government's response to the annual haze phenomenon, which typically affects Malaysia during the dry season. Air quality at such levels is classified as hazardous and poses serious respiratory risks, particularly for vulnerable populations including children.
The Education Ministry has been urged to treat the matter with utmost seriousness, with His Majesty's statement signalling the need for coordinated action across multiple government agencies. The call for precautionary school closures aligns with public health guidance recommending restrictions on outdoor activities when pollution reaches dangerous thresholds.
Authorities have not yet announced a specific implementation timeline or additional measures, though the royal directive is expected to prompt swift policy adjustments. Officials continue to monitor air quality readings across the country as transboundary haze contributions from regional sources persist.