Melaka shuts all schools as haze pollution reaches critical levels

MELAKA — The Melaka Education Department has confirmed the closure of all government schools in the state following a significant deterioration in air quality caused by regional haze. The decision was implemented to protect students and staff from exposure to hazardous pollution levels.

Education officials have instructed teachers and parents to monitor air quality forecasts closely and stay alert for further updates regarding school operations. Authorities emphasized the importance of checking official announcements before sending children to school, as additional closures may be announced depending on pollution trends.

The closure affects all schools administered by the Ministry of Education across Melaka. While specific air quality index readings were not detailed in the directive, the measure underscores growing concerns about haze pollution's impact on the state's education sector.

School closures due to haze have become increasingly common during seasonal outbreaks affecting South and Southeast Asia. Authorities in affected regions typically suspend classes when air quality reaches hazardous levels to prevent respiratory health risks among students and educators.