AMID rising temperatures affecting schools across Malaysia, the Education Ministry has announced a coordinated national approach to safeguard students’ health while maintaining continuity in learning.
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the ministry is collaborating closely with the Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) to ensure that all measures adhere to official health and climate guidance.
“Every plan will be coordinated closely with MOH and MetMalaysia to ensure our approach is well-organised and does not disrupt students’ learning,” she said during a visit to a secondary school in Kajang to announce the SPM examination results.
She emphasised that protecting students’ education remains a central priority even as authorities respond to environmental challenges.
“This is because our priority remains the learning of our students, as well as the health and well-being of the entire school community,” Fadhlina added.
The ministry plans to develop a comprehensive long-term strategy to manage heatwaves, minimising disruptions to the academic calendar while safeguarding students’ health.
While short-term measures such as Home-based Teaching and Learning (PdPR) are available, the minister stressed that a sustainable approach is needed.
“We will work closely with them to ensure our plans are organised and effective, without interfering with the children’s learning process,” she said, referring to expert guidance from the Health Ministry and MetMalaysia.
Fadhlina also acknowledged growing calls to improve school infrastructure, including the installation of air-conditioning and the creation of covered areas for co-curricular activities.
“Those are all good suggestions. If the guidelines for covered areas in schools can be improved, we will do our best to do so,” she said, adding that the ministry is open to expert recommendations to enhance the school environment. - March 31, 2026
