Concerns have been raised about the management of school attendance during periods of hazardous air quality caused by haze, with some advocating for a more cautious approach to protect students’ health. The issue centers on whether schools should remain open when the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) exceeds 300, a level classified as hazardous to health.

One parent, Ng Choon Lai, expressed disagreement with the suggestion that schools stay open and parents be left to decide whether to send their children to school under such conditions. Ng argued that allowing families to make the decision may result in inconsistent protection, as some parents might underestimate the health risks posed by severe haze, while others may feel pressured to send their children due to work obligations. The parent emphasized that the health and safety of students should take precedence over concerns about disruptions to learning or inconveniences associated with school closures.

Ng suggested that home-based learning, as implemented during the Covid-19 pandemic, provides a viable alternative to in-person lessons and can help minimize interruptions to education. The parent also called for additional support for families facing childcare challenges during periods when schools might be closed due to hazardous air quality.

Urging the Ministry of Education to develop clear guidelines aligned with public health recommendations, Ng advocated for a precautionary policy that mandates the suspension of in-person lessons when the haze reaches hazardous levels. The stance highlights the need to prioritize children’s well-being over maintaining regular schooling schedules amid environmental health threats.