Penang authorities have suspended all outdoor activities at schools across the island following elevated Air Pollutant Index (API) readings in parts of the state. The decision came after measurements taken in Minden and Balik Pulau exceeded the unhealthy threshold of 100.
Mohamad Dziauddin Mat Saad, director of the Penang State Education Department, confirmed that the directive to halt outdoor activities was issued on Tuesday in response to the rising pollution levels. As of midday, Balik Pulau recorded an API of 152, while Minden registered 127. Other areas, including Seberang Perai and Seberang Jaya on the mainland, reported lower but less favorable readings of 90 and 94, respectively.
The API scale categorizes air quality as good between 0 and 50, moderate between 51 and 100, unhealthy between 101 and 200, very unhealthy between 201 and 300, and hazardous above 300. The current levels in Minden and Balik Pulau fall within the unhealthy range, prompting precautionary measures to protect students' health.
Dziauddin stated that if the index reaches 200 or higher, schools will be closed and lessons shifted to an online format. A dedicated monitoring system, established on August 13, tracks the API hourly with updates ranging from early morning to evening to ensure timely response. Authorities plan to issue announcements before 8 p.m. should the situation worsen, allowing parents, school staff, and canteen operators adequate time to prepare.
Penang’s southwest district encompasses 51 primary and secondary schools, while the northeast district covers 106 schools. The directive applies to all schools on Penang island, affecting thousands of students.
State health committee chairman Daniel Gooi urged the public to adhere to guidance from the Health Ministry. He emphasized the importance of close communication between parents and schools regarding any new directives. Gooi discouraged outdoor activities while the air quality remains unhealthy and recommended wearing face masks for those who need to go outside. He also advised staying hydrated by drinking at least eight glasses of water daily.