The Ministry of Education has announced this afternoon that public schools in Malaysia will reopen from Wednesday, 24th June 2020. However, it is only for students that are taking public exams this year.
According to Education Minister Mohd Radzi Md Jidin, the resumption of classes will be applicable for students who are taking Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM), Sijil Tinggi Pelajaran Malaysia (STPM), Sijil Vokasional Malaysia (SVM) and Sijil Tinggi Agama Malaysia (STAM). International students taking equivalent exams are also permitted to resume classes as well.
The minister said that the decision was made after consulting with the Ministry of Health and the National Security Council. For the remaining classes, it will be reopened in stages and the ministry will make further announcements at a later time.
Schools must also adhere to SOP and health guidelines to reduce the risk of COVID-19 infections. All students, staff and visitors must undergo temperature checks before they can enter the school premises. The ministry urges parents and guardians to send their children to school only if they are in good health. They shouldn’t go to school if they have flu, cough, sore throat and difficulty in breathing, and must be sent for medical treatment.
For recess, the break time for students will be allocated in stages. Students can takeaway food at the school canteen with social distancing measures and they will consume their meals in their respective classrooms under the supervision of a teacher.
If a student is showing symptoms at school, they will be isolated and parents will be contacted to pick up their children. Schools will also have to notify health authorities about the situation.