The Ministry of Education (MOE) has directed schools in areas where the Air Pollutant Index (API) exceeds 180 to close temporarily beginning Friday, as worsening haze conditions raise concerns over the health and safety of students and teachers.
The directive is part of precautionary measures introduced to minimise exposure to unhealthy air quality, particularly among schoolchildren who may be more vulnerable to respiratory problems.
Schools in affected areas are required to monitor official air quality readings and take appropriate action in accordance with the ministry’s guidelines. The closures are intended to protect students, teachers and school staff from prolonged exposure to polluted air.
Education Director-General Datuk Mohd Azam Ahmad also announced that educational institutions in areas recording API readings above 150 for three consecutive days must close beginning Monday, 12 October 2026. The ministry said the measures reflect the priority placed on student safety and health by Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim.
During the closures, affected schools must implement home-based teaching and learning (PdPR), taking into account students’ access to learning resources and teachers’ readiness. The ministry will continue monitoring haze conditions in consultation with the Ministry of Health and relevant agencies.
