KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 15 (Bernama) -- The Scouts Association of Malaysia (PPM) will step up safety measures and enhance preparedness to address potential haze-related risks during the 2026 National Jamboree on The Air and Jamboree on the Internet (JOTA-JOTI), scheduled for Oct 16 to 18.
National Chief Scout Major General Datuk Wira Prof Dr Mohd Zin Bidin said in a statement today that the Air Pollutant Index (API) would be monitored continuously using official data from the Department of Environment (DOE) to ensure that all activities took prevailing air quality conditions into account.
“PPM places great emphasis on the safety, health and well-being of all participants, particularly younger Scouts and those with respiratory problems,” he said.
The statement said PPM reserved the right to modify the programme, venue or schedule, including postponing or cancelling certain activities, should haze or other safety concerns pose a risk to participants’ health.
Outdoor activities would be assessed regularly and could be adjusted, restricted or postponed if API readings indicated unsafe air quality conditions.
Outdoor activities would be scaled down or moved indoors if the haze worsened, while strenuous physical activities would be avoided when air quality was unsatisfactory.
PPM said alternative activities had been planned to ensure the programme could proceed smoothly without compromising participants’ health and safety.
Participants were advised to bring appropriate face masks, stay hydrated and promptly inform a teacher, leader or medical personnel if they developed symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, a sore throat or eye irritation.
PPM said safety and health personnel would be stationed at the venue, with first-aid facilities provided to enable a prompt response in the event of an emergency.
The programme, themed “A Peaceful and Inclusive World”, will bring together Scouts from across the country to promote unity, friendship and inclusivity.
As of 3 pm, 35 areas recorded API levels in the unhealthy category, with Klang, Selangor, registering the highest at 194.
--BERNAMA