Politics · Malaysia Bureau
MOH advises on haze but education ministries make closure calls
Malaysia's Health Ministry provides guidance on air quality during haze episodes, but final decisions on school closures rest with the Education Ministry and Higher Education Ministry, according to a parliamentary response.
LSN Malaysia ·
The Ministry of Health (MOH) plays an advisory role when haze conditions threaten public health, but the Ministry of Education (MOE) and Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) retain authority over closure decisions, Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad clarified in Parliament.
Dzulkefly's statement addressed parliamentary questions regarding whether the Health Ministry was consulted before recent school closure notices were issued during haze episodes. He confirmed that MOH provides recommendations based on air quality data and health assessments, which are then considered by the respective education authorities.
The clarification establishes a clear chain of responsibility in haze response protocols. While MOH monitors air quality indices and advises on health risks, the education ministries evaluate these recommendations alongside operational considerations before deciding whether to implement closures.
This framework reflects Malaysia's multi-agency approach to managing haze-related public health challenges, ensuring health expertise informs education decisions while maintaining each ministry's jurisdictional authority. The arrangement aims to balance student safety concerns with educational continuity during periods of poor air quality.