Schools across four states, KL and Putrajaya shut due to haze

Schools across Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Pahang and Perak have ceased operations due to escalating haze conditions affecting the region. The closure order encompasses all educational institutions in the four states and the federal territories as air quality indices reached concerning levels, prompting authorities to prioritize student and staff safety.

The Ministry of Education confirmed that all schools in the affected areas would remain shut until air quality measurements improve sufficiently to permit safe resumption of academic activities. The decision reflects growing concerns over the health impacts of prolonged exposure to particulate matter and reduced visibility in affected regions.

In a statement, education officials indicated that any future school closures stemming from environmental conditions will be announced with adequate advance notice to allow parents, guardians and educational institutions time to make necessary arrangements. The commitment aims to minimize disruption to the academic calendar while ensuring appropriate safeguards remain in place when air quality deteriorates.

The transboundary haze phenomenon, which periodically affects Malaysia and other Southeast Asian nations, typically peaks during dry seasons when agricultural burning across the region contributes to regional air pollution. Schools and public facilities are often among the first institutions to close when air quality index readings exceed safe thresholds.