KUALA LUMPUR: The National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) has urged state disaster management committees to step up efforts to tackle the haze through regular coordination meetings, continuous air quality monitoring and prompt action by relevant agencies.
The measures aim to protect public health and safety, particularly that of schoolchildren.
In a statement today, Nadma said the call followed decisions made at the National Disaster Management Committee's High-Level Committee meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi in Kuching, Sarawak, on Sept 16.
It said the measures were reinforced through inter-agency discussions on Oct 13 involving Nadma, the National Security Council, Education Ministry, Health Ministry and Department of Environment to ensure a coordinated and effective response to the haze.
"The coordination emphasises the responsibility of each agency to act within its respective jurisdiction, while ensuring pupils' safety and health remain a priority without prolonged disruption to education.
"However, decisions on school operations remain subject to the Education Ministry's guidelines and assessments of prevailing conditions," the statement said.
Nadmasaid it would continue to strengthen coordination and information-sharing among agencies, particularly on air quality data, weather developments and health advisories.
"This is to support decisions by the relevant authorities and ensure field operations are carried out in an orderly manner.
"Nadma also stresses that haze response measures must be guided by the National Haze Action Plan, taking into account Air Pollutant Index (API) readings, weather conditions, the risk of open burning and threats to public health," it said.
State disaster management committees have been urged to monitor conditions continuously, coordinate agency responses and ensure adequate personnel, equipment and resources are available in affected areas.
The statement said that should the situation worsen, Disaster Operations Control Centres should be activated according to operational requirements and prevailing procedures to expedite coordination and assistance for affected residents.
"The public is advised to reduce outdoor activities when air quality deteriorates, particularly children, senior citizens, pregnant women and those with respiratory problems.
"Parents are also urged to follow official announcements from the Education Ministry and schools regarding any changes to school operations," it said.
Nadma advised the public to refer to the official portals of relevant departments and agencies for accurate and verified information.
The latest API readings are available on the Department of Environment's portal at https://eqms.doe.gov.my/APIMS/main, while current weather information and forecasts can be obtained from the Malaysian Meteorological Department's website at https://www.met.gov.my.
Haze-related health advice and guidance are available on the Health Ministry's website at https://www.moh.gov.my, it added.
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