From Malay Mail · Malay Mail · · 1m
Malaysian schools close if haze index exceeds 180
Malaysian schools close from October 9 if air pollution index hits 180.
In brief
Malaysian schools close from October 9 if air pollution index hits 180. Malaysian schools must close from October 9 if air pollution index exceeds 180, with home learning required for affected areas. Originally reported by Malay Mail.
Education Ministry directive
Schools in areas where the Air Pollutant Index (API) exceeds 180 must close from October 9, 2026.
“Schools and educational institutions under the Education Ministry in areas where the Air Pollutant Index (API) exceeds 180 must close from tomorrow (October 9), as authorities step up measures to protect students and teachers from the worsening haze.”
Extended closure period
Schools in areas with API readings above 150 for three consecutive days must close from October 12, 2026.
“Schools in areas where API readings remain above 150 for three consecutive days must also close from Monday, October 12, 2026.”
Home-based learning
Affected schools must switch to home-based teaching and learning to ensure educational continuity.
“Schools and educational institutions under the ministry that are affected are required to conduct home-based teaching and learning sessions.”
Health ministry collaboration
Education Ministry will monitor air quality with Health Ministry to protect students and staff health.
“The Education Ministry will continue to monitor developments from time to time and seek advice from the Health Ministry and relevant agencies to ensure the safety, health and welfare of students and education personnel are protected.”
Haze impact
Haze continues to affect air quality in parts of Malaysia, raising health concerns.
“The latest directive comes as haze continues to affect air quality in parts of Malaysia, raising concerns over prolonged exposure to pollutants, particularly among children and other vulnerable groups.”
API classification
API readings of 101-200 are unhealthy; 201-300 are very unhealthy.
“Under Malaysia’s API classification, readings of 101 to 200 are considered unhealthy, while those between 201 and 300 are classified as very unhealthy.”
The bottom line
Malaysian schools must close from October 9 if air pollution index exceeds 180, with home learning required for affected areas.
