PETALING JAYA: Schools across 10 district education offices in Sarawak will reopen as usual today following improved air quality, says the Sarawak Education Department.
These districts include Kuching, Padawan, Bau, Lundu, Samarahan, Simunjan, Serian, Sri Aman, Lubok Antu and Betong.
“This will include all secondary schools and primary schools in these 10 districts.
“However, any changes or latest information will be announced from time to time,” it said yesterday.
The department said the decision was made after assessing Air Pollutant Index (API) readings recorded at 10am yesterday from the Environment Department’s Air Pollutant Index Management System (Apims) portal.
It also noted, however, that student well-being, health and safety remain the top priority, and reminded schools to take the necessary steps if the haze returns.
This includes the suspension of all outdoor activities involving students if the API reading exceeds 100 and the total closure of all schools if the API reading exceeds 200.
“Temporary closure of schools can also be made based on the recommendation of the Sarawak State Disaster Management Committee from time to time.
“The reopening of schools will depend on API readings showing a declining trend to below 200, after which action can be taken to prepare for the reopening of schools,” the department said.
It also reminded all district education offices and all educational institutions to implement preventive steps to ensure the health and safety of students once school is reopened.
It said this includes monitoring activities that could expose students to hot weather or haze and ensure all students have an adequate supply of drinking water.
“Pupils are also advised to wear masks and drink water in suitable quantities frequently to control body temperature. Schools must always be cautious and cooperate with nearby clinics and hospitals if any complications occur to pupils due to haze.
“The department will always prioritise the welfare, health and safety of pupils, especially when facing hot weather or any unexpected weather conditions.”
