GEORGE TOWN: All educational institutions in Penang will operate as usual tomorrow, with air pollutant index (API) readings across the state remaining below 150 as of 2pm today.
The Penang Education Department said the decision was in line with the Education Ministry's statement on Oct 10, subject to any further directives from the ministry or relevant authorities.
In a statement today, the department said it was closely monitoring the haze situation, while district education offices and schools continued to track API readings through official sources and assess air quality in their respective areas.
"Appropriate action will be taken and schools notified if conditions change.
"Schools have been reminded to comply with the ministry's instructions and existing guidelines when managing their operations.
"Outdoor activities, including sports and co-curricular programmes, must take into account current API readings and the health of pupils and school staff," it added.
The department said the safety, health and welfare of pupils and education personnel remained a priority, while ensuring teaching and learning continued in an orderly manner.
Earlier today, it was reported that 19 areas nationwide recorded unhealthy API readings as of 8am, with Pasir Gudang in Johor recording the highest reading at 180.
Johor was the worst-affected state, with eight areas recording unhealthy readings, according to the Department of Environment's (DoE) Air Pollutant Index Management System.
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