GOPENG: School administrators may temporarily close schools if temperatures exceed 37°C for three consecutive days, says Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh.
He said the Education Ministry remains committed to safeguarding students’ well-being amid rising temperatures, noting that hot weather is an annual challenge.
Wong said clear guidelines are already in place to manage school activities during periods of extreme heat.
Under the guidelines, temperatures below 35°C are classified as normal.
However, if temperatures exceed 35°C and reach up to 37°C for three consecutive days, it is considered a warning stage.
Wong said that if temperatures exceed 37°C for three consecutive days, the Malaysian Meteorological Department may declare a heatwave.
He added that school administrators, have been instructed to closely monitor daily temperature readings at both school and district levels.
“At Heat Alert Level 1, all outdoor activities involving students and teachers must be suspended. This includes sports events, cross-country runs, camping, drills, outdoor games and agricultural activities.
“If conditions escalate further, school administrators are empowered to temporarily suspend school operations,” he said during a visit to SJK(T) Gopeng yesterday.
Wong also said the Education Ministry will leave it to individual schools to decide whether students should be encouraged to bring their own water bottles.
“For technical matters like this, principals and headmasters are best placed to provide appropriate guidance to students,” he said, adding that staying hydrated is essential regardless of weather conditions.
On SJK(T) Gopeng, Wong said a new building will be constructed to replace the school’s dilapidated main block, which has been affected by a severe termite infestation and structural deterioration, under a RM14.5mil redevelopment project.
The main block, which houses classrooms and administrative offices, was found to be unsafe, with the Public Works Department recommending reconstruction.
“The redevelopment plan includes six classrooms, administrative offices, a teachers’ room, a sports store, as well as additional facilities such as a design and technology workshop, science laboratory, counselling room and meeting room to support teaching and learning,” he said.
He added that tenders are expected to be called in June, with construction anticipated to begin by year-end, subject to contractor appointment.
“The project is expected to take around 22 months, with completion targeted for end-2028,” he said.
During the construction period, temporary classrooms will be provided to ensure lessons continue without any disruption.
