Johor Extends School Closures Through October 16 Amid Escalating Haze Crisis
Johor extends school closures to Oct 16 as haze worsens, impacting over 600,000 students. Air quality remains unhealthy in eight areas.
POLICY WIRE — Johor Bahru, Malaysia — The southern Malaysian state of Johor has extended school closures through October 16 due to deteriorating air quality caused by persistent haze.
The decision, announced late Saturday, follows a review of current air pollution trends and health risks for students and staff. Schools in the region had initially closed on October 8, with other states later implementing similar measures.
Johor education committee chairman Muhammad Naqib Md Ghazali cited the need to prioritize public safety, referencing guidance from the Regent of Johor, Tunku Mahkota Ismail. He also noted that wind patterns from Indonesia’s Kalimantan could bring additional transboundary pollution, worsening conditions in the coming days.
The closure affects 1,198 schools and 617,258 students, including both national and religious institutions. Academic assessments during this period will be rescheduled, while remote learning will continue where feasible.
Air quality in 15 Malaysian regions is currently classified as unhealthy, with eight of those located in Johor. The Air Pollutant Index (API) defines “unhealthy” levels between 101 and 200, with “hazardous” conditions exceeding 300.
The state government will continue monitoring air quality in collaboration with relevant agencies, with further updates expected based on the latest environmental data and health assessments.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)