KUCHING: A total of 27 schools in Tebedu will be temporarily closed tomorrow after the Air Pollutant Index (API) exceeded 200, with home-based teaching and learning (PdPR) activated.
The Sarawak Education Department said the closure involves one secondary school and 26 primary schools, based on ongoing monitoring and API readings recorded at 2pm today.
The decision also took into account Malaysian Meteorological Department reports on haze conditions across the state.
The department said PdPR implementation aligns with the Education Ministry Circular No. 8/2016 on teaching and learning management guidelines during disasters.
Teachers and implementation support staff are also permitted to work from home throughout the temporary closure.
The department said the closure directive applies to all primary and secondary schools in districts that record API readings exceeding 200 after the issuance of the statement.
However, face-to-face classes will continue for Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) candidates with strict adherence to face mask guidelines.
The measure complies with Circular No. 1/2005 on preparations for haze threats during examinations (Operasi Topeng) and the Special Operations Guidelines: Disaster and Crisis Management During Examinations (Revised Edition) 2026.
For schools located near districts recording API readings above 200, headmasters and principals may consider implementing PdPR based on student safety and health.
If API readings show a downward trend below the 200 threshold, school administrators may initiate preparations to reopen.
Tebedu, located in Serian Division, is the closest district to the Malaysia-Indonesia border.
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