A SUDDEN flash flood at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Jitra in Kedah forced Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) candidates to be moved to alternative schools this morning to ensure their examinations could continue safely.
Kedah State Education Department Director Abdul Rahim Mat said today the floodwaters began rising during the Malay Language Paper 1 examination, prompting the immediate relocation of 17 candidates sitting the Visual Arts Paper 1 to SMK Tanjung Pauh.
“This school was not initially affected by flooding, but water levels rose while the examination was underway,” he explained. “We were concerned the water could rise further, so the students were moved to ensure their examinations proceeded smoothly.”
A total of 163 candidates, including private candidates, were also transferred to SMK Bandar Baru Darulaman to sit the Malay Language Paper 2 in the afternoon.
The relocation was assisted by police trucks, teachers’ vehicles, and the students’ parents, with authorities reporting that the transfer occurred without incident.
“SMK Bandar Baru Darulaman had been prepared in advance as an alternative examination centre. The relocation process was carried out smoothly and safely,” the department said in a statement today.
Bernama’s on-site report observed that several parts of SMK Jitra, including the examination hall’s grounds, were inundated at around 10.20 am while candidates were completing their Malay Language Paper 1.
“The 17 candidates affected were sitting the Visual Arts Paper 1 scheduled to begin at 11.45 am,” the statement said. “This relocation ensures the examination can continue safely and in accordance with the regulations set by the Examination Board.”
Abdul Rahim added that the Education Department, alongside the school and district office, would continue monitoring water levels and ensure all logistical and safety requirements were met.
“JPN Kedah wishes to express appreciation to the school, district education office, security personnel, and all parties involved for helping to ensure that the SPM examinations could continue uninterrupted for the benefit of the candidates,” he said. - November 25, 2025
