KLUANG: Students in flood-hit areas are not strictly required to wear uniforms, says Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek (pic).
She said the ministry will also look into the welfare of teachers affected by the recent floods.
“We understand that many children were unable to bring along their school uniforms when they were evacuated.
“It is not an issue; they may attend school in any appropriate attire. I have also instructed the state Education Department to look into the welfare of the teachers.
“We have received reports of some teachers being stranded and the state Education Department has taken the necessary steps to provide assistance,” she told reporters after visiting the SK Sri Kencana temporary relief centre (PPS) here yesterday.
She said the ministry’s psychosocial teams and Smart Support Team are ready to provide emotional support and learning assistance to the students.
She said students not affected by the floods should wear their uniforms as usual unless there are circumstances, such as continuous heavy rain, preventing them from preparing their attire.
The minister also expressed sympathy to the people of Johor and assured them that the government was taking necessary measures to ensure their welfare.
“We have visited three schools which served as PPS and discovered that the flood situation was serious. Many PPS were opened, including in areas that have never been flooded before,” she said.
“The response from agencies such as the National Disaster Management Agency and the State Education Department has been commendable in ensuring the preparedness and smooth operation of relief efforts.”
Fadhlina also noted an increase in the number of schools affected by floods, particularly in Kota Tinggi and Kluang.
“While we hope the situation stabilises soon, we must remain prepared for any further developments. Currently, 47 schools have been turned into PPS, with the highest number in Pontian.
“We have also received reports that several schools have been closed due to flooding,” she said, adding that a total of 886 students are currently placed at PPS.