Students advised to remain in hostels as haze forces school closures

The Education Ministry has recommended that students residing in school hostels remain on campus when educational institutions are forced to close due to haze, citing logistical and safety considerations during periods of poor air quality.

The advisory comes as the ministry seeks to balance the need to protect student health with operational challenges posed by sudden school closures triggered by hazardous air quality levels. Officials indicated that hostel-based students would be better accommodated on campus rather than attempting to travel home during conditions that prompt school shutdowns.

Education Ministry officials acknowledged parental concerns about school closures and committed to announcing decisions to suspend classes as far in advance as possible. The ministry said earlier notice would give families adequate time to make necessary arrangements, particularly for students who commute daily or require special transportation.

The move reflects ongoing efforts to manage the impact of seasonal haze on Malaysia's education sector, where air quality fluctuations regularly necessitate temporary school closures to protect students' health. By providing timely notifications and clear guidance on student placement during such periods, authorities aim to minimize disruption to the academic calendar while safeguarding student welfare.