Schools across Putrajaya, Selangor shut as air quality deteriorates

Federal education authorities have announced the closure of all schools under the Ministry of Education's purview in Putrajaya, Selangor, and Rompin following a sharp deterioration in air quality. The decision came after the Air Pollutant Index (API) readings reached unhealthy levels across the affected regions, prompting officials to prioritize student and staff safety.

The sweeping closures represent an escalation in responses to the ongoing haze crisis affecting the region. Education Ministry officials determined that the air quality had degraded to levels where prolonged outdoor activities and in-person instruction posed health risks, particularly for younger students and those with respiratory conditions.

The measure affects educational institutions ranging from primary schools through tertiary facilities across the three affected areas. Officials did not specify the duration of the closures, indicating that reopening decisions would depend on improvements in air quality readings and guidance from environmental monitoring agencies.

The closures underscore the increasing frequency of air quality emergencies in Malaysia's central regions. Schools have been instructed to coordinate with parents regarding alternative learning arrangements and essential services.