King urges school closures in haze-affected areas amid air quality crisis

KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia's constitutional ruler has recommended that schools in areas grappling with hazardous air quality should close their doors if the Air Pollution Index sustains levels between 150 and 180 or higher for prolonged stretches.

The measure aims to protect student and staff welfare during periods of poor air quality, which has become an increasingly pressing concern during haze episodes affecting the region. The advisory reflects growing recognition of the health risks posed by prolonged exposure to air pollutants, particularly among younger populations.

The recommendation adds to existing protocols for managing air quality emergencies. Authorities have previously issued guidelines triggering various restrictions when the API breaches critical thresholds, though school closure decisions have typically been made on a case-by-case basis by individual state or federal education authorities.

The call comes amid periodic transboundary haze events that have affected Malaysia and neighbouring countries, with monitoring agencies tracking real-time air quality measurements across major population centres. Health officials have consistently warned that exposure to hazardous air quality can exacerbate respiratory conditions and other health complications.

Education and health authorities are expected to coordinate on implementing frameworks that balance academic continuity with public health imperatives during episodes of severe air pollution.