KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 8 — Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim has called for schools in haze-hit areas to close if Air Pollutant Index (API) readings go above a range of 150 to 180 for a prolonged period.

The King expressed concern over the health and safety of schoolchildren and students amid the haze affecting the country, urging the Education Ministry to give serious attention to the situation.

“Appropriate measures must be taken by the relevant ministries and agencies to protect schoolchildren and students, including senior citizens and patients with respiratory illnesses.

“Always take precautions to safeguard your health, including wearing face masks and reducing outdoor activities due to the haze,” His Majesty said.

Sultan Ibrahim stressed that the health and safety of schoolchildren and students must be given priority amid the deteriorating air quality.

Yesterday, Johor announced the closure of schools for two days on the decree of Tunku Mahkota Ismail, Regent of Johor, following worsening haze and air quality across the state.