Schools across Penang have been ordered to step up preparedness as haze continues to affect air quality in several parts of the state, with authorities putting greater emphasis on the safety and wellbeing of students and education personnel.
The Penang State Education Department (JPNPP) said schools and district education offices (PPD) must closely monitor the Air Pollutant Index (API) and remain alert to the latest warnings and developments surrounding the haze situation.
JPNPP said schools must also ensure adequate drinking water supplies, encourage students to stay hydrated and minimise their exposure to outdoor air.
Particular attention should be given to students with existing health problems or those showing signs of ill health. The department also encouraged students and school staff to wear face masks where appropriate as an additional precaution.
The department said outdoor activities must be stopped once the API reading exceeds 100 to reduce students’ exposure to unhealthy air.
Schools, meanwhile, must be closed immediately if the API exceeds 200.
“Should the API reading exceed 500, teachers and members of the implementing group do not need to attend school, subject to the provisions in force,” JPNPP said in a statement issued on Tuesday night.
Schools have also been instructed to report developments and measures taken to their respective PPDs and JPNPP to allow monitoring and coordination at state level.
The latest situation comes as several areas in Penang recorded unhealthy API readings. The Department of Environment (DOE) said Minden, Seberang Perai and Balik Pulau were among 29 areas nationwide that recorded unhealthy readings as of 2pm on Tuesday.
Earlier at 11am, API readings stood at 155 in Minden, 151 in Balik Pulau and 146 in Seberang Perai, according to data from the Malaysian Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS).
The readings fall within the unhealthy category, prompting authorities to maintain close monitoring as haze conditions continue to develop.
