Ministry of Higher Education Monitors Situation of Malaysian Students in Indonesia Due to Haze
The Ministry of Higher Education (KPT) is currently closely monitoring the situation of Malaysian students in Indonesia following the increasingly worrying haze problem in the country. Minister of Higher Education, Datuk Seri Dr. Zambry Abdul Kadir, gave assurances that the ministry is in constant contact with the embassy to ensure the students' safety is guaranteed.
According to the ministry, this monitoring is being carried out to ensure that students are not exposed to serious health risks due to unhealthy air quality. Authorities in Indonesia have reported an increase in Air Pollutant Index (API) readings in several regions that host many Malaysian students, especially in the Sumatra and Kalimantan areas.
Datuk Seri Dr. Zambry advised all Malaysian students there to always follow the latest developments issued by local authorities and the Malaysian Embassy. Students are also asked to limit outdoor activities and wear face masks to reduce the adverse effects of the haze on their respiratory health.
To date, the ministry has not issued instructions to bring students home, but they are prepared to take further action should the situation become more critical. Universities in Indonesia have also been asked to cooperate with the embassy to ensure the welfare of students is maintained throughout this haze period.
The Ministry of Higher Education will continue to provide updates from time to time to parents and the public. The safety and health of Malaysian students abroad remain the government's priority in facing the haze situation affecting this region.