PUTRAJAYA: All schools in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Selangor and Penang will be closed for two days (Thursday and Friday) due to the haze.
The managements of higher education institutions meanwhile, have been given the authority to decide whether classes will continue or otherwise, said Education Minister Dr Maszlee Malik.
He said throughout the closure period, teachers were allowed to work from home, while principals and headmasters must ensure that this was carried out, to ensure the welfare of the teaching workforce.
The schools’ administrations, he said, were advised against conducting official meetings during this period.
“Principals and headmasters can announce the closure of schools if, based on their assessment, they feel that the Air Pollutant Index (API) readings on the day is worsening.
“They have to relay their decision to the district and state education departments.
“If the pupils or students are already in school and a closure is announced, classes can continue as usual until the end of the school day.
“However, parents or guardians who wish to take their children home are allowed to do so,” he said after a meet-and greet session with the Malaysia Warrior and Malaysia Tiger teams here today.
Teachers can also use Google Classroom to communicate with students as well as give them homework.
Maszlee said the leave period need not be replaced as it was categorised as disaster leave.
He said school closure notices due to the haze would be announced by 6pm at the latest, daily.
“Students and teachers are also advised to take care of their health and drink enough water during this period. Please also minimise outdoor activities.
“School administrations are also advised to follow current standard operating procedures at all times,” he added.