THREE schools in Johan Setia, Klang, were ordered closed today after the area’s air pollutant index (API) reading exceeded 200.

The Selangor Education Department, in a statement, said the schools are SK Johan Setia, SK Jalan Kebun and SMK Jalan Kebun.

For schools in areas with API readings exceeding 200, it said, closure orders will be issued as per the Education Ministry circular No. 1/2019.

“The closure won’t affect all types of examinations… which will continue as scheduled.

“All schools involved are advised to refer to the ministry’s circular and take action.”

State Education deputy director Muhamad Radzi Abdullah said: “If the API reading drops below 200, the schools will be reopened. The schools’ administration must be up to date on the readings and act according to the circular.”

As at 9am today, Johan Setia registered an API of 213.

Shah Alam recorded 133, Klang (136), Banting (124), Petaling Jaya (126) and Kuala Selangor (140).

Meanwhile, Pahang Menteri Besar Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail advised schools to close if the smoke issue gets worse.

He said it is hoped that school authorities abide by the standard operating procedure, including supplying students with masks and calling off outdoor activities.

As at 10am, the API reading for Jerantut was 116.

An API reading of 0 to 50 means the air quality is “good”, 51-100 (“moderate”), 101-200 (“unhealthy”), 201-300 (“very unhealthy”), and 300 and above (“hazardous”). – Bernama, September 12, 2019.