KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 7 — Parents may choose not to send their children to school if they are concerned about their health amid the haze currently affecting the country, said Education Minister Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek.

She said parents only needed to inform the school if they decided to keep their children at home.

"I understand parents’ concerns over the current haze situation. We hear those concerns. The health and safety of our children remain the priority in every action we take,” she said in a Facebook post today.

She said the ministry would continue to monitor Air Pollutant Index (API) readings issued by the Department of Environment (DOE), as well as the latest situation, particularly in affected areas.

Fadhlina said any measures taken would be based on the National Haze Action Plan.

"When the API reading exceeds 100, all outdoor activities are suspended. When it exceeds 200, schools are closed,” she said.

According to the Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) portal this morning, Samarahan, Sarawak was the only area to record a very unhealthy reading, at 226.

Meanwhile, 40 areas nationwide recorded unhealthy readings and 24 recorded moderate readings. — Bernama