Culture & Entertainment · Malaysia Bureau
Malaysia to shut schools if air pollution index exceeds 180
The Education Ministry has announced that all schools and educational institutions under its purview will close if the Air Pollutant Index reaches 180 or higher in their respective areas. The measure aims to protect student health during periods of severe haze.
LSN Malaysia ·
KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia's Education Ministry has established a threshold for school closures tied to air quality levels, with institutions required to shut their doors when the Air Pollutant Index climbs to 180 or above in their localities.
The decision reflects growing concerns over the impact of transboundary haze on student welfare and academic activities. Schools falling under the ministry's jurisdiction will monitor air quality readings and implement closures accordingly, ensuring students are not exposed to hazardous air conditions during severe pollution episodes.
Educational institutions have been instructed to notify parents and stakeholders promptly when closure protocols are activated. The ministry's move aligns with regional efforts to safeguard public health during seasonal haze events, which typically affect Malaysia and neighbouring countries during certain periods of the year.
School administrators are expected to coordinate with local environmental authorities to obtain accurate Air Pollutant Index readings for their areas. The closure threshold of 180 is considered a critical level at which health risks become significant, particularly for vulnerable populations including children.