Contradictheory: Going back to school is new, scary, and full of uncertainty


A teacher taking students’ temperatures on the first day back for students on July 15, 2020. Whether Malaysian parents choose to send their children to school or not, the writer believes the important thing to do is to be proactive and prepare for things to change at a moment’s notice. — AZHAR MAHFOF/The Star

Do you remember what it was like when you first went to school? You might have been a bit scared and nervous, perhaps. Definitely a lot of unknowns to navigate. Funny how parents are experiencing those same feelings this week.

Schools have gradually been reopening in Malaysia in the recovery movement control order (MCO) period, although worries remain. The first students allowed to return, on June 24, 2020, were those sitting for public exams. The week beginning July 12, 2020, the rest of secondary school returned, as well as those in Year Five and Six, while on July 22, 2020, Years One to Four will return.

Unlock 30% Savings on Ad-Free Access Now!

Monthly Plan

RM13.90/month
RM9.73 only

Billed as RM9.73 for the 1st month then RM13.90 thereafters.

Annual Plan

RM12.33/month
RM8.63/month

Billed as RM103.60 for the 1st year then RM148 thereafters.

1 month

Free Trial

For new subscribers only


Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.
Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Living

Dehorning of rhinos decreases poaching of the endangered animals
Britain's sunniest spring yields unusually sweet strawberries
Monsoon-loving Indian expats are chasing rain in the UAE desert
Bookish love story: Couple asks for children’s books as wedding gifts to be donated
How to move a rhino
Coffee and beats: Sober clubbing is a fresh brew for Gen Z in Singapore
'No children left playing': Silence fills Panama island threatened by the sea
Sunny Side Up: Connections that help the soul
This new type of plastic can dissolve in seawater
How to regain control when dealing with passive-aggressive people at work

Others Also Read