The Ministry of Education (MOE) is actively considering various alternatives to Home-Based Teaching and Learning (PdPR) to ensure that the academic progress of students remains uninterrupted during the current national heatwave. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek stated that the ministry is evaluating infrastructure upgrades and flexible school settings to mitigate the impact of rising temperatures. These measures aim to provide a more sustainable long-term solution than shifting entire districts to online learning.
Among the primary proposals being reviewed is the enhancement of physical facilities, including the construction of more open-hall concepts and covered areas within school compounds. These shaded spaces are intended to offer a cooler environment for students, particularly in regions frequently hit by extreme weather. Furthermore, the ministry is looking into the feasibility of installing air conditioning units in classrooms, a suggestion that has gained significant traction from various stakeholders and education experts.
Speaking during a visit to SMK Tinggi Kajang, Fadhlina emphasized that the ministry is open to expert opinions regarding long-term climate adaptation. Since heatwaves are recurring annual phenomena rather than isolated incidents, the MOE is committed to moving beyond temporary fixes. The Minister reiterated that any new policy or infrastructure project would be developed in close coordination with the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) and the Ministry of Health (MOH) to ensure student safety.
The health and well-being of the entire school community remain the ministry’s top priority when making these logistical decisions. Fadhlina noted that every plan must be structured and evidence-based, relying on daily temperature data and health guidelines provided by relevant authorities. This collaborative approach is designed to balance the necessity of physical schooling with the physical risks posed by high thermal stress on children and educators alike.
This strategic shift comes after a recent spike in temperatures led to over 86,000 students in Kedah shifting to PdPR for three days. Areas such as Kota Setar and Pendang had previously reached Level 2 heat warnings, triggering the temporary closure of physical classrooms. However, as of tomorrow, these schools are set to resume face-to-face sessions as local temperatures have reportedly receded to Level 1, signaling a trend toward more manageable weather conditions.
