Air quality crisis forces school shutdowns across four Sarawak districts

The Sarawak Education Department issued directives on August 20 to suspend classes in Kuching, Padawan, Serian, and Samarahan districts as poor air quality posed health risks to students and staff. The measure was implemented to protect the wellbeing of school communities amid deteriorating environmental conditions in the region.

Schools affected by the closure have activated home-based learning programmes to ensure educational continuity during the shutdown period. Parents and educators have been advised to monitor official announcements for updates on school reopening timelines.

The move reflects growing concerns over transboundary haze pollution in East Malaysia, a recurring seasonal challenge that regularly impacts air quality across Sarawak. Environmental authorities have not yet indicated when conditions are expected to improve sufficiently to permit the resumption of on-campus instruction.

Education officials have urged all stakeholders to follow health advisories and minimise outdoor activities while haze levels remain elevated. The department said it would continue coordinating with relevant agencies to assess air quality before making further announcements regarding normal operations.