Sarawak: A total of 647 primary and secondary schools in Sarawak will close temporarily for five days starting Monday due to haze that has pushed Air Pollutant Index (API) readings in several locations in the state into the unhealthy range.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Sarawak Education Department (JPN) announced that 563 primary schools with 108,477 pupils and 84 secondary schools with 90,082 pupils will be closed from September 7 to 11. This decision follows continuous monitoring of API readings during the school holidays and reports from the Malaysian Meteorological Department.

The affected schools are under the supervision of 12 district education offices, which include Kuching, Padawan, Bau, Lundu, Samarahan, Simunjan, Serian, Sri Aman, Lubok Antu, Kanowit, Julau, and Meradong. Schools impacted by the haze will transition to Home-Based Teaching and Learning (PdPR) throughout the temporary closure.

The Sarawak JPN emphasized the importance of adhering to standard operating procedures and prioritizing the health of pupils and teachers, assuring that updates will be provided as the situation evolves. Educational institutions are also advised to keep track of API readings in their respective areas via the Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) portal.

His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, has consented to the declaration of an emergency throughout Sarawak's Serian Division after worsening haze levels posed a hazard to public health and safety. The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) declared that this decision was made following advice from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, and relevant agencies on the air quality in the area.