KULAI: More than 1,500 pupils have been instructed to switch to online learning following the temporary closure of two schools after a fire broke out at a nearby rubber and plastics storage warehouse.
Johor education and information committee chairman Aznan Tamin said SJK (C) Sengkang and SJK (C) Kulai Besar would remain closed until further notice, based on advice from the Kulai Health Office.
“The authorities reported that the smell of smoke was still present at the schools’ compounds, which posed health risks if classes were allowed to continue as usual.
“The schools have been told to conduct online Home-based Teaching and Learning and adhere to the guidelines outlined by the district health office,” he said in a statement yesterday.
The directive affected 178 pupils, 16 teachers and three administrative staff at SJK (C) Sengkang, while SJK (C) Kulai Besar involved 1,353 pupils, 71 teachers and five administrative workers.
Bukit Batu assemblyman Arthur Chiong Sen Sern said parents of about 10 pupils from SK Taman Kota Kulai complained that their children experienced nausea.
“The school called the parents to send the children for immediate medical attention,” he said, urging the relevant authorities to address the air quality concerns.
As of 7pm yesterday, firefighters were still working hard at the site on Jalan Air Hitam in Senai to put out the fire that began at 4.37pm on Tuesday.
Kulai fire station chief and operations commander Muhammad Fauzi Awang said 39 firemen were involved in the operation. They were supported by 11 personnel from a shipbuilding and heavy engineering company.
State housing and local government committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor said the warehouse, located within an industrial zone, was licensed on Aug 18, 2021 for material processing activities.
