Once a Level 2 heatwave alert is issued — defined as temperatures exceeding 37°C for three consecutive days — schools or educational institutions under the Ministry of Education (MOE) are allowed to decide independently whether to close.
According to Harian Metro, the decision can be made based on the MOE’s 2023 Guidelines for School Closures During Extreme Heat, which remain in effect.
The guideline states that schools do not need to wait for direct instructions from the MOE, but must immediately inform the state and district education departments through both verbal and written notice using appropriate communication channels.
“Once the temperature reaches Level 2 alert status, school management must submit a formal notice stating that the school will be closed immediately. The notice must be supported with documentation proving a risk assessment was conducted prior to the decision,” the report noted.
In addition, parents and guardians must be notified of the school’s closure and reopening schedule, including any replacement class dates. However, if the Ministry grants an exemption from holding replacement classes, there will be no need to reschedule.
The MOE emphasized that the purpose of the guideline is to ensure a systematic approach in handling school closures during extreme heat, and that student welfare, health, and safety must be the top priority.
