Schools in Serian, Lubok Antu to remain closed until haze improves

KUCHING, Sept 12: The temporary closure of schools in the Serian and Lubok Antu districts has been extended until the Air Pollutant Index (API) readings in both districts fall below 200.

In a statement tonight, the Sarawak State Education Department (JPNS) said the decision was made based on continuous monitoring of API readings through the Department of Environment’s official portal, using the Malaysian Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS), as well as reports from the Malaysian Meteorological Department.

However, all primary and secondary schools under the supervision of 12 District Education Offices (PPD), namely Kuching, Padawan, Bau, Lundu, Samarahan, Simunjan, Sri Aman, Kanowit, Julau, Meradong, Bintulu and Tatau/Sebauh, will operate as usual from this Monday.

“Any changes regarding school operations or the latest developments will be announced from time to time,” the statement read.

It also stated that the Ministry of Education (MOE), in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), would soon distribute face masks to students, teachers and staff at schools identified as being severely affected by the haze.

JPNS said the welfare, health and safety of students remain a top priority, particularly during hot weather or unexpected weather conditions.

The department also reminded schools to take appropriate measures should haze affect their respective areas or districts.

“If the API reading exceeds 100, all outdoor activities involving students must be halted.

“When the API reading exceeds 200, all schools in the affected area or district must close immediately. If the reading exceeds 500, teachers and school staff are not required to report for duty,” it said.

JPNS said schools would reopen once the API reading falls below 200.

Additionally, the department said parents and guardians may keep their children at home if they are concerned about their health due to the haze currently affecting several areas in Sarawak.

However, parents and guardians must inform the respective schools of their decision, it said.

It said temporary school closures could also be implemented based on recommendations from the Sarawak State Disaster Management Committee (JPBNS), depending on developments in the situation.

The department also reminded all District Education Offices (PPD) and educational institutions under its purview to implement preventive measures to safeguard students’ health during hot or hazy weather.

“Schools must monitor activities that could expose students to hot or hazy conditions to ensure their health is not compromised, ensure an adequate supply of clean drinking water, and encourage students to bring their own drinking water.

“Students are also advised to wear face masks and drink water frequently in appropriate amounts to help regulate body temperature,” it said.

JPNS emphasised that the health, safety and well-being of the entire education community remain its top priority, and advised the public and parents to obtain the latest information on school operations in their respective districts through the department’s official channels. -TVS