KUALA LUMPUR: The Form Three Assessment (PT3) listening tests for Bahasa Melayu, English and Al-Lughah Al-Arabiah Al-Muasirah may be postponed in areas with ‘very unhealthy’ Air Pollutant Index (API).
Education Ministry (MoE) in a statement said the three tests, however, would take place as scheduled in districts with API readings below 200.
MoE said the tests may be postponed until Oct 31 in areas with API above 200.
“Based on our observation, many areas in the peninsula are still recording ‘unhealthy’ and ‘very unhealthy’ air quality as of 5pm today.
“MoE understands the difficulty faced by the schools, students, and parents due to the haze. However, Bahasa Melayu, English and Al-Lughahal-Arabiah Al-Muasirah listening tests scheduled on Sept 23, Sept 24 and Sept 25 will continue in the areas not affected by the haze with a strict monitoring by the state education departments, district education offices and the schools.
“Meanwhile, areas affected by the haze (API readings above 200) may postpone the listening tests until Oct 31.”
The ministry added that state education departments, district education offices and schools have been informed on the steps to be taken when conducting these tests.
It also reminded them to continuously monitor the API from time to time.
An API reading of between 0 and 50 indicates “good” air quality; 51 and 100 (moderate); 101 and 200 (unhealthy); 201 and 300 (very unhealthy) and 300 and above (hazardous).