The haze situation has prompted school closures in several states in the peninsula, with announcements made a day prior. (Bernama pic)PETALING JAYA: Civil society groups have called for earlier announcements and clearer guidelines on haze-related school closures.

Melaka Action Group for Parents in Education (Magpie) proposed that the education ministry announce the next day's school arrangements by noon on the preceding day, instead of waiting until the evening.

"While we recognise that haze conditions can change rapidly and urgent announcements may sometimes be unavoidable, earlier communication should be the standard practice whenever circumstances permit," it said in a statement.

Magpie said earlier notice would help parents arrange childcare and transport while giving teachers time to prepare lessons and alternative learning plans.