TEBEDU: Contrary to viral claims suggesting otherwise, the supply of pillows and mattresses for the dormitories at SMK SMK Tebedu here is sufficient.
The controversy arose when images circulated online purportedly showcasing substandard bedding provided to students residing in the school’s dormitories.
However, upon thorough investigation, it was revealed that the pictures depicted a room designated for the disposal of outdated mattresses and pillows rather than the actual living quarters.
SMK Tebedu principal Albert Dundang stressed that the school never intended to provide inadequate facilities to its students and pledged to address any concerns internally.
As such, he urged parents to communicate directly with the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) to ensure swift resolution of any issues.
“If we look at the data (the number of dormitory facilities and the number of students residing in the dormitories), we still have enough numbers to have good mattresses.
“The issue is that it went viral, and the individuals involved immediately reported it to the Minister of Education.
“That’s why I politely and respectfully advised members of the school’s PTA to provide information about any issues so that I can address them. I never intended to provide inadequate facilities to students.”
Albert told the media this upon receiving a visit from Serian MP Datuk Seri Richard Riot on Friday (March 15).
He clarified that the matter was promptly brought to the attention of the Serian District Education Office (DEO), with face-to-face meetings held with officials from the State Education Department (JPNS).
He said that further investigations by the DOE and JPNS officials acknowledged some deficiencies but affirmed that the majority of facilities were in satisfactory condition.
Towards this end, he affirmed that the school took decisive action by procuring 150 new mattresses, along with additional pillows and lockers, using funds allocated for Dormitory Food Assistance (BMA) totalling RM100,000.
On the same note, Serian District Education officer Bunsie Tunton commended the school’s prompt response, noting that the issue was reported to his office immediately upon its emergence online.
Bunsie said that the process of addressing such concerns about disposing of substandard items typically involves timely reporting from the school to the district office, followed by subsequent communication with the state education department.
“Our department did receive requests for disposal. However, the endorsement process does take time. Once we obtain the asset disposal letter, only then can it be disposed of.
“There hasn’t been an actual shortage. The facilities are sufficient. However, due to the viral nature of this issue, additional supplies will be sent,” he said.
