KUCHING: Schools in Serian will remain closed until Friday (Aug 14) although the air pollutant index (API) reading in the division has dropped below 200.
The state Education Department said the temporary closure of 107 schools, comprising eight secondary schools and 99 primary schools, has been extended to Friday.
"This decision was made so as not to burden school administrators, teachers, parents and students, especially those in boarding schools," it said in a statement on Thursday (Aug 13).
The department added that an engagement session was held with the principals and headmasters of the schools under the Serian district education office's jurisdiction on Thursday.
The schools had been ordered to close temporarily on Wednesday (Aug 12) when the API exceeded 200 in Serian.
The department reminded schools to follow the Education Ministry's standard operating procedures to safeguard the health and safety of students and staff.
It also advised educational institutions to monitor the latest air pollutant index (API) readings and comply with recommendations issued by the Health Ministry.
Seven areas in Sarawak recorded unhealthy API readings at 4pm yesterday, with Serian recording the highest of 179.
This was followed by Samarahan at 177, Kuching (175), Sri Aman (163), Sarikei (158), Mukah (152) and Sibu (150).
