The Ministry of Education (MOE) has issued a directive for all schools to suspend outdoor activities if temperatures exceed 35°C to safeguard students’ health against the ongoing heatwave. In a statement released today, the ministry emphasised the importance of monitoring all activities that could potentially expose students to extreme weather conditions. These precautionary measures are intended to ensure that the physical well-being of pupils is not compromised as educational institutions nationwide prepare to resume classes this coming Sunday and Monday.
With the conclusion of the first term holidays, the MOE has called upon all educational institutions under its jurisdiction to step up preparations and implement necessary strategies to manage the heat. Schools are required to ensure a consistent and sufficient supply of clean drinking water for all students and are encouraged to prompt pupils to stay hydrated throughout the school day. Proper water intake is highlighted as a critical factor in regulating body temperatures and preventing heat-related complications during peak temperature hours.
For residential schools, the ministry has specified that the management must provide drinking water to hostel students should critical situations arise where alternative sources are unavailable. School authorities are also advised to remain vigilant and maintain close cooperation with nearby clinics and hospitals to facilitate immediate medical attention if any student experiences health complications due to the weather. This proactive networking with healthcare providers is seen as a vital safety net during the current climatic phase affecting the region.
In a move to provide further relief, school managements are permitted to grant special permission for students, teachers, and implementation group members to wear decent sports attire. This flexibility in the dress code is subject to the specific needs and current situations of each individual institution, allowing for better comfort during the instructional day. The ministry stressed that school administrators must remain sensitive to the local weather patterns in their respective areas and strictly adhere to established guidelines.
According to the current academic calendar, the term break for Group A, involving Kedah, Kelantan, and Terengganu, concludes on 28 March with schools reopening on Sunday. Meanwhile, Group B, which includes Melaka, Johor, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Pulau Pinang, Sabah, Sarawak, Selangor, and the Federal Territories, will end their holidays on 29 March and return to classes on Monday. The MOE continues to monitor the situation closely to provide updated instructions as the weather phenomenon persists.
