Haze forces schools in Lubok Antu and Kanowit to take a break

KUCHING: All primary and secondary schools under the Lubok Antu and Kanowit District Education Offices (PPD) have been temporarily closed with immediate effect today (Sept 21) due to haze.

The Sarawak Education Department (JPN Sarawak) said the decision was made based on Air Pollutant Index (API) readings recorded as of 9am today (Sept 21).

Following the closure, Home-Based Teaching and Learning (PdPR) will be implemented in accordance with the Ministry of Education Malaysia Circular No. 8 of 2016 on the Guidelines for the Management of Teaching and Learning Due to Disasters.

JPN Sarawak also said headmasters and principals of schools located near districts recording API readings above 200 could consider implementing PdPR, taking into account the health and safety of students.

“If the Air Pollutant Index (API) trend shows a decline, with readings below 200, headmasters and principals may take the necessary steps to prepare for the reopening of schools,” it said.

Schools are reminded to comply with the established standard operating procedures and refer to the Ministry of Education Malaysia Circular No. 1 of 2019 on measures to ensure the health and safety of students in schools located in areas experiencing critical haze.

Meanwhile, all educational institutions under JPN Sarawak have been advised to continuously comply with the guidelines on outdoor activities during hot weather and remain alert to current developments.

JPN Sarawak also urged educational institutions to monitor API readings in their respective areas through the Department of Environment’s Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) and follow recommendations issued by the Ministry of Health Malaysia.

The department said the health, safety and well-being of students, teachers and other members of educational institutions remained a priority.