Prepared for anything: Year One pupils heading to school with a mask on as a precautionary measure. — LIM BENG TATT/The Star
NIBONG TEBAL: With flu cases rising due to the weather, students are urged to wear face masks if they feel unwell.
State education director Wan Sajiri Wan Hassan said this is part of a ministry-level initiative to help prevent the spread of illness.
“If students are experiencing flu-like symptoms or cough, they should mask up when attending school as a precautionary measure,” he told reporters during the first day of school at SMK Saujana Indah here yesterday.
Wan Sajiri expressed concern over the hot weather, saying a contingency plan for students is in place.
“The erratic weather has been discussed and students are given the flexibility to wear more suitable clothing if the weather is hot.
“We hope that schools are well prepared for the first week and offer engaging activities to ensure the students have a positive experience,” he said.
Wan Sajiri said a total of 235,305 students are starting the 2025/2026 school year across 396 schools statewide.
Of those, 100,681 students are enrolled in secondary schools, 126,608 in primary schools and 8,016 in preschools.
A total of 20,192 pupils have registered for Year One in 269 schools, while 16,814 students are beginning Form One in 127 schools.
“There is an average of 30 to 35 students per classroom.
“Originally, there were schools with two sessions but they have now reverted to one session starting this year,” he said.
Earlier, A. Danavalli, 44, was seen dropping her daughter K. Hasbitha, 14, off at school.
“I don’t make her wear a mask unless the school requires it.
“I believe there are precautionary measures in place,” she said.
