All schools in Johor will be closed for two days beginning Oct 8 as worsening haze pushes air quality into the unhealthy range across multiple districts in the state.
State Education and Information Committee chairman Dr Muhammad Naqib Md Ghazali said the decision was made following a decree by the Regent of Johor, Tunku Mahkota Ismail, as a precautionary measure to protect students’ health and safety.
During the closure, schools will switch to home-based teaching and learning to ensure lessons can continue.
Schools involved in the Year 4 Learning Matrix or other assessments will have the sessions postponed and rescheduled, subject to arrangements by the Johor State Education Department and relevant authorities.
Muhammad Naqib said the state government recognised that the closure could affect working parents and guardians, and urged employers to provide reasonable flexibility where possible.
The state government and relevant agencies will continue monitoring Air Pollutant Index readings before deciding on further measures.
As at 5pm on Wednesday, several areas in Johor remained in the unhealthy category, including Segamat at 179, Batu Pahat at 177, Pasir Gudang at 176, Larkin at 172, Tangkak at 169, Pengerang at 167, Kota Tinggi at 166 and Kluang at 165.
Parents and guardians have been advised to reduce children’s outdoor activities, ensure they remain well hydrated and seek medical attention if symptoms such as coughing, sore throat or breathing difficulties develop.
