NGOs demand clearer framework for haze-related school closures

Engage and Projek Sama have urged policymakers to establish transparent, standardised guidelines for school closures triggered by poor air quality, rather than relying on ad-hoc measures that lack consistent justification. The NGOs argue that decisions affecting millions of students and families require thorough cost-benefit assessments before implementation. Current closure protocols often appear reactive and driven by the need for immediate public response, the organisations contend, rather than grounded in epidemiological or operational data. A more systematic approach would weigh the health benefits of keeping children indoors against the educational disruption and logistical challenges of sudden closures, they suggest. The groups have called on federal and state education authorities to develop detailed criteria specifying air quality thresholds, age groups most at risk, and alternative learning provisions before haze season begins. Such measures, they argue, would enhance consistency across Malaysia and reduce the uncertainty that schools, parents and students currently face when air quality deteriorates. The call comes as haze episodes continue to pose seasonal challenges across the region, with Malaysia frequently affected by transboundary smoke from forest fires in neighbouring countries.