(Kuching, 12th) Sarawak Education Department Director Omar Mahli said that due to flooding in certain areas, a total of 28 schools across Sarawak were unable to operate normally this morning.
Omar explained during an on-site media interview at SMK Petra Jaya that this number was revised after further communication with affected schools.
“Yesterday morning, our initial report was that 42 schools were unable to hold classes. In the afternoon, after holding a meeting with these 42 schools and re-assessing the situation, the number of schools unable to open this morning was reduced to 26,” he said.
However, he added that the Dalat District Education Office (PPD Dalat) reported two more schools flooded last night, causing the number of schools unable to open to increase again.
“Therefore, a total of 28 schools across Sarawak were unable to operate this morning,” he explained.
As for possible damage to school facilities, Omar stated that there have not been any reports of severe damage so far, although some schools have seen water levels rise.
He explained that schools have been repeatedly reminded to move assets and equipment to higher ground to prevent loss.
“We have repeatedly reminded schools to ensure that school assets are placed in safe locations to avoid worse damage. Unless there is an unexpected flash flood, most assets can generally be protected. So far, I have not received any reports from any district education office about severe damage,” he added.
Omar also confirmed that not all affected schools must immediately switch to home-based teaching (PdPR).
“Yes, for now this is their most suitable option. In addition, during the first week of the semester, we mainly organize orientation and fun learning activities as part of the school opening week,” he emphasized.
Omar explained during an on-site media interview at SMK Petra Jaya that this number was revised after further communication with affected schools.
“Yesterday morning, our initial report was that 42 schools were unable to hold classes. In the afternoon, after holding a meeting with these 42 schools and re-assessing the situation, the number of schools unable to open this morning was reduced to 26,” he said.
However, he added that the Dalat District Education Office (PPD Dalat) reported two more schools flooded last night, causing the number of schools unable to open to increase again.
As for possible damage to school facilities, Omar stated that there have not been any reports of severe damage so far, although some schools have seen water levels rise.
He explained that schools have been repeatedly reminded to move assets and equipment to higher ground to prevent loss.
“We have repeatedly reminded schools to ensure that school assets are placed in safe locations to avoid worse damage. Unless there is an unexpected flash flood, most assets can generally be protected. So far, I have not received any reports from any district education office about severe damage,” he added.
Omar also confirmed that not all affected schools must immediately switch to home-based teaching (PdPR).
“Yes, for now this is their most suitable option. In addition, during the first week of the semester, we mainly organize orientation and fun learning activities as part of the school opening week,” he emphasized.