Schools in 10 Sarawak districts to resume classes tomorrow as API improves

The Sarawak Education Department said the schools under the PPDs of Kuching, Padawan, Bau, Lundu, Samarahan, Simunjan, Serian, Sri Aman, Lubok Antu and Betong would reopen as scheduled. — The Borneo Post pic

First Published: Sunday, 23 Aug 2026 12:40 PM MYT

KUCHING, Aug 23 — All primary and secondary schools under the 10 District Education Offices (PPDs) in Sarawak will operate as usual from tomorrow, following improvements in Air Pollutant Index (API) readings.

The Sarawak State Education Department (JPNS) said the schools under the PPDs of Kuching, Padawan, Bau, Lundu, Samarahan, Simunjan, Serian, Sri Aman, Lubok Antu and Betong would reopen as scheduled.

It said the decision was based on API readings recorded at 10am today through the Department of Environment’s Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS).

“Any changes or latest information will be announced from time to time,” it said in a statement.

JPNS reminded schools to take precautionary measures if haze affects their respective areas.

“All outdoor activities involving students should be suspended if the API reading exceeds 100, while schools in affected areas or districts must be closed immediately if the reading exceeds 200.

“If the API reading exceeds 500, teachers and school staff would not be required to report to school,” it said.

The department said the reopening of schools was subject to API readings remaining below 200, with preparations for reopening possible if readings show a downward trend below the threshold.

“Temporary closures may also be carried out based on recommendations by the Sarawak State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) from time to time,” it added.

JPNS reminded PPDs and educational institutions to monitor activities that could expose students to hot or hazy conditions, ensure sufficient clean drinking water and encourage students to bring their own water.

“Students are also advised to wear nasal masks and drink sufficient water frequently, while boarding schools should provide drinking water if conditions become critical and no other sources are available.”

It further advised all educational institutions to cooperate with nearby clinics and hospitals should students experience complications arising from haze.

JPNS said educational institutions should comply with the guidelines contained in the Ministry of Education Malaysia Circular No. 1 of 2019 on measures to safeguard students’ health and safety in areas affected by critical haze.

“Educational institutions should also remain alert to current developments by referring to the official Department of Environment’s APIMS portal or the Natural Resources and Environment Board Sarawak (NREB) website to monitor the API levels in their respective areas or districts.

“They should also comply with the recommendations from the Ministry of Health Malaysia to safeguard the health of students and members of educational institutions,” it said. — The Borneo Post