The news that schools will be affected comes before most children are due to return to education for the new year, raising questions over why the government had announced the move at the last minute.

The communications and digital minister also says the government is aiming to achieve 100% internet coverage in populated areas.

Minister Fadhlina Sidek says the rating of scores must be according to merit.

Collecting information about ethnicity or religious beliefs is generally prohibited in France under the country's anti-discrimination laws.

Works Minister Alexander Nanta Linggi says the storm affected 29 schools in the national capital.

It says its stand will not change even in the event of government action against it.

The Chinese education group warns against the escalation of racial issues for political mileage.

The wing's chief proposes that Chinese independent schools facing financial problems be absorbed into the national school system.

Armed gangs operating mostly in remote parts of northwest Nigeria have carried out violent attacks against villagers, schools and motorists, abducting hundreds for ransom.

Deputy Education Minister Lim Hui Ying says schools will be told to close in the event of an API reading of 200 and above.

This will be observed at schools under the education ministry throughout the country.

Health director-general Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah says the current increase in cases and clusters follows the reopening of schools in mid-March.