Close schools and delay exams in Singapore due to the haze
The Issue
As students in Singapore, we're all too familiar with the haze that currently shrouds our city. It affects our health, our ability to concentrate, and our overall well-being. Just across the border in Malaysia, authorities have taken a proactive approach by closing schools when the air quality drops to unsafe levels. But why should Singaporean students be any less protected?
The haze is not just an inconvenience; it's a serious health hazard. The pollutants from the fires in Indonesia, which significantly contribute to the haze, are known to cause respiratory problems, particularly in young children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions. According to the National Environment Agency of Singapore, when the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) levels rise above 100, it's considered unhealthy. Yet, schools here remain open even when air quality deteriorates.
This isn't just about missing a day of school; it's about prioritizing the health and safety of students. The World Health Organization has identified that long-term exposure to such pollutants can have severe health impacts. We cannot allow our education system to place academic pursuits above the well-being of its students.
Parents, teachers, and students themselves have raised concerns about the risks posed by the haze. If Malaysia can introduce measures to ensure the safety of their children, Singapore should follow suit. It's clearly a feasible option as demonstrated by our neighbours.
Therefore, we urge the Ministry of Education in Singapore to establish a clear policy for school closures when the haze reaches unhealthy levels. This policy should include:
1. Immediate closure of schools when PSI levels exceed 150/ 200, aligning with international health standards.
2. Implementation of flexible learning options such as online classes to ensure that education continues without compromising health.
3. Regular updates and transparent communication from the government concerning the air quality index to keep parents and students informed.
We believe that by taking these actions, we can protect the health of students today and set a precedent for future generations. Let's all take this step towards a safer learning environment.
Please sign this petition to demand that the Ministry of Education take decisive action in safeguarding the health of students against the detrimental effects of haze.
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The Issue
As students in Singapore, we're all too familiar with the haze that currently shrouds our city. It affects our health, our ability to concentrate, and our overall well-being. Just across the border in Malaysia, authorities have taken a proactive approach by closing schools when the air quality drops to unsafe levels. But why should Singaporean students be any less protected?
The haze is not just an inconvenience; it's a serious health hazard. The pollutants from the fires in Indonesia, which significantly contribute to the haze, are known to cause respiratory problems, particularly in young children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions. According to the National Environment Agency of Singapore, when the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) levels rise above 100, it's considered unhealthy. Yet, schools here remain open even when air quality deteriorates.
This isn't just about missing a day of school; it's about prioritizing the health and safety of students. The World Health Organization has identified that long-term exposure to such pollutants can have severe health impacts. We cannot allow our education system to place academic pursuits above the well-being of its students.
Parents, teachers, and students themselves have raised concerns about the risks posed by the haze. If Malaysia can introduce measures to ensure the safety of their children, Singapore should follow suit. It's clearly a feasible option as demonstrated by our neighbours.
Therefore, we urge the Ministry of Education in Singapore to establish a clear policy for school closures when the haze reaches unhealthy levels. This policy should include:
1. Immediate closure of schools when PSI levels exceed 150/ 200, aligning with international health standards.
2. Implementation of flexible learning options such as online classes to ensure that education continues without compromising health.
3. Regular updates and transparent communication from the government concerning the air quality index to keep parents and students informed.
We believe that by taking these actions, we can protect the health of students today and set a precedent for future generations. Let's all take this step towards a safer learning environment.
Please sign this petition to demand that the Ministry of Education take decisive action in safeguarding the health of students against the detrimental effects of haze.
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Petition created on 10 October 2026