KUCHING: All primary and secondary schools in 10 districts affected by the haze will resume normal operations tomorrow (Monday, Aug 24), as Air Pollutant Index (API) readings in the affected areas have fallen below 200.
The Sarawak State Education Department (JPNS) said the schools involved are under the supervision of the District Education Offices (PPDs) of Kuching, Padawan, Bau, Lundu, Samarahan, Simunjan, Serian, Sri Aman, Lubok Antu and Betong.
It said the decision was based on API readings recorded at 10 am today (Aug 23) through the Department of Environment’s official Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS).
“Any changes or latest information will be announced from time to time,” it said in a statement today.
JPN Sarawak said it would continue to prioritise the health, safety and well-being of students, particularly during haze or extreme weather conditions.
Schools have also been reminded that all outdoor activities involving students must be suspended if the API reading exceeds 100, while schools in affected areas must be closed immediately if the reading exceeds 200.
If the API reading exceeds 500, teachers and school staff are not required to report to school.
The department added that school reopening is subject to API readings remaining below 200, while temporary closures could also be implemented based on recommendations from the Sarawak State Disaster Management Committee (JPBNS).
Schools have also been advised to ensure adequate supplies of clean drinking water, encourage students to stay hydrated and wear nasal masks, as well as monitor activities that could expose them to haze or hot weather.
JPNS further urged educational institutions to monitor API readings through APIMS or the Natural Resources and Environment Board Sarawak (NREB) and comply with health recommendations issued by the Ministry of Health Malaysia.
“All educational institutions under the supervision of JPNS are advised to comply with the guidelines contained in the Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE) Circular Letter No. 1 of 2019, Measures by the Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE) to Ensure the Health and Safety of Students in Schools Located in Areas Affected by Critical Haze, dated Jan 15, 2019,” it said.
