Malaysia closes schools in capital, parts of country due to haze
Malaysia has closed schools in several regions due to hazardous air quality caused by forest fires in Indonesia. The government is seeking regional cooperation to address the recurring haze crisis.
Why it matters
Transboundary haze is a major environmental and public health issue in Southeast Asia, requiring international diplomatic intervention.
The city skyline is seen shrouded with haze in Singapore on October 8. (Photo: AFP)
Malaysia closed schools in Kuala Lumpur and other parts of the country on Oct. 9, as haze from fires in neighbouring Indonesia again plunged local air quality to among the world's worst.
Toxic smoke from peatland and forest fires has shrouded cities in the region for more than a month, sending respiratory complaints skyrocketing.
The school closures came as Malaysia's leader discussed the choking smoke with his Indonesian counterpart and called for an urgent regional meeting.
Air quality in Kuala Lumpur has been firmly in "unhealthy levels" this week, with a Swiss-based air quality monitor ranking the Malaysian capital among the world's most polluted cities on most days.
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