JOHOR BAHRU (Oct 24): All educational institutions in Johor will resume operations on Monday, Oct 26, following an assessment of the haze situation and evaluations by relevant agencies.

State Education and Information Committee chairman Dr Muhammad Naqib Md Ghazali said the decision was made on the directive of the Regent of Johor, Tunku Mahkota Ismail, who consistently prioritises the safety, health and well-being of the people of Johor.

He said a change in wind direction that began on Saturday, coupled with higher humidity and forecast rainfall, is expected to further ease the haze situation.

The decision also took into account the downward trend in air pollutant index (API) readings across the state over the past five days.

“The reopening also takes into account the need to conduct year-end examinations and preparations for students sitting for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination.

“A health risk assessment by the State Health Department was also a key consideration to ensure the safety of students, teachers and the entire school community,” he said in a statement on Saturday.

Muhammad Naqib said the State Education Department would coordinate the implementation of health and safety standard operating procedures, including the wearing of face masks, and monitor school activities based on the latest API readings and established guidelines.

He added that the state government, in collaboration with relevant agencies, would continue to monitor the haze situation, with further updates to be announced as necessary.

“We remain committed to prioritising the safety and health of the school community while ensuring continuity in the education of Johor’s children,” he said.

Previously, all schools in Johor, involving more than 1,000 institutions and about 600,000 students, were closed for 10 days due to the haze and deteriorating air quality.

As of noon on Saturday, eight areas in Johor recorded unhealthy API readings, with Larkin registering the highest reading at 170.

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