Kanowit air quality reaches very unhealthy level, schools closed

KANOWIT, Sept 21: Air quality in Kanowit has deteriorated to a very unhealthy level, with the Air Pollutant Index (API) reaching 212 as of 10.00 am today.

Kanowit Member of Parliament, Dato Sri Aaron Ago Dagang said the haze situation required urgent attention due to health risks, particularly for children, senior citizens and other vulnerable groups.

He supported the Sarawak State Education Department’s immediate temporary closure of all primary and secondary schools under the Kanowit District Education Office.

“I take note of and support the decision by the Sarawak State Education Department to temporarily close, with immediate effect today, all primary and secondary schools under the supervision of the Kanowit District Education Office.

“The implementation of Home-Based Teaching and Learning (PdPR) throughout the closure period is an appropriate measure to ensure that education can continue without compromising the health and safety of students and educators,” he said in a statement released on Monday.

PdPR will be implemented throughout the closure period to ensure students can continue their education while safeguarding their health and safety.

Therefore, Aaron urged residents to limit time outdoors, avoid unnecessary outdoor activities and closely follow API updates and advice from the authorities.

Parents and guardians have also been urged to monitor their children’s health, while vulnerable individuals are advised to take extra precautions as the haze persists. – TVS