Smelly no more: Pupils of SK Kubang Kerian 2 make full use of their school’s renovated toilets. — Bernama
KOTA BARU: The financial aid of RM70,000 from the Education Ministry to solve longstanding toilet issues has been described as a blessing for teachers and pupils at SK Kubang Kerian 2.
Headmaster Yaman Yaacob said with the allocation, a major overhaul of all 21 toilets at the school, eight of which were in a dilapidated state and required immediate attention, had been made possible.
“We had some allocation before, but it was insufficient, making it difficult for us to overhaul the entire toilet system in this school.
“The main issues included blocked pipes, broken doors, unpleasant odours, and dysfunctional flush valves and tanks.
“With the allocation, we were also able to replace the old pipes and broken doors, and install more sitting toilets,” he said during a recent interview, as reported by Bernama.
Yaman said that the toilet renovation project for the school, which has 725 pupils from preschool to Year Six, commenced in August and was fully completed in November last year.
For Year Five student Iffah Salsabila Kamarul Hisyam, the refurbished toilets are starkly different from the old, damaged, and dirty ones.
“Prior to this, I had always hesitated to use the school toilets. Not anymore. Everything is good now.
“Even my friends agree that the toilets are beautiful and smell pleasant,” she said, having attended the school since she was in Year Three.
Year Six student Nik Hazrey Iskandar Nik Hassanuddin also acknowledged that the school’s toilets are more comfortable now.
“I used to restrain myself from using the school toilets because of their poor condition and foul smell.
“Now, they are way better and more comfortable,” he said.
SK Kubang Kerian (2) Parent-Teacher Association chairman, Dr Imran Ahmad, emphasised that cleanliness is a significant aspect of school life and requires great attention.
“Cleanliness is a fundamental issue.
“We are well aware that most schools have problems with toilets, so this allocation from the ministry is very appropriate, because school toilets are often stigmatised.
“The approach taken by the school is also very apt.
“It’s not about making the toilets a five-star facility, but rather improving the condition of all toilets with the allocated budget,” he said.
Imran added that well-maintained toilets will also send a positive message to the students.
