PETALING JAYA: Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim has called for schools in areas affected by prolonged haze to be closed, as air pollution readings remain at unhealthy levels.
His Majesty said the health and safety of students must be given priority, particularly as the Air Pollutant Index (API) recorded sustained readings of between 150 and 180 in affected areas.
He also urged the Education Ministry to take the situation seriously and ensure appropriate measures are taken to protect students and school communities.
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“Appropriate measures must be taken by the ministry and relevant agencies to protect students, including senior citizens and those with respiratory illnesses.
“Always take precautions to safeguard health, including wearing face masks and reducing outdoor activities due to the haze,” His Majesty said in a statement issued through the Royal Press Office.
The call came amid deteriorating air quality in several areas, with authorities stepping up measures to reduce exposure to the haze.
Yesterday, Johor announced the closure of schools for two days following a decree by Tunku Mahkota Ismail, the Regent of Johor, in response to worsening haze and declining air quality across the state.
The closure affected schools statewide as authorities moved to prioritise the health and safety of students amid the deteriorating conditions.
His Majesty’s call also extended to vulnerable groups, particularly senior citizens and people with respiratory conditions, urging them to take precautions and limit outdoor exposure while haze conditions persist.
