Haze eases in parts of Malaysia but schools stay on alert as Air Pollutant Index rules loom

Skies cleared over parts of Malaysia on September 13 following a period of haze that forced school closures, though parents and school authorities remain on alert for further deterioration. Under Malaysia's National Haze Action Plan, schools close immediately when the Air Pollutant Index exceeds 200, a threshold that was breached during the latest episode. Working parents described significant childcare disruptions, with those on flexible work arrangements better positioned to cope when schools shut.