World · Malaysia Bureau
Malaysian universities gain autonomy to decide on haze response measures
As haze conditions deteriorate across the region, Malaysia's Higher Education Ministry has granted public universities the authority to independently assess air quality and determine appropriate learning arrangements for their campuses.
LSN Malaysia ·
Higher Education Minister Zambry Abd Kadir said institutions of higher learning must evaluate current atmospheric conditions themselves and decide on suitable teaching methods in response to worsening air pollution.
The move grants Malaysian public universities (IPTA) greater flexibility in making operational decisions as haze levels continue to worsen across South and Southeast Asia. Rather than implementing blanket directives, the ministry has delegated responsibility to individual institutions to monitor air quality and implement appropriate measures.
Universities are expected to assess factors such as Air Pollutant Index readings and health advisories from relevant authorities before determining whether to continue face-to-face classes, shift to online learning, or suspend activities altogether.
The decision reflects the ministry's recognition that haze conditions vary across different regions and campuses, necessitating localized responses rather than centralized mandates. Institutions must balance academic continuity with student and staff health and safety concerns amid the deteriorating air quality.
This delegation of decision-making authority comes as haze levels have reached concerning levels in several parts of the country, prompting multiple sectors to adopt preventive measures.