KUCHING: The Malaysian Parents Consultative Association (Mapim) Sarawak branch agrees with the latest announcement by the Ministry of Education (MoE) on the reopening of schools by stages beginning next month.
Its acting chairman Datuk Rozalix Edi Wahab said however, it hoped that schools in red zones would be temporarily excluded first.
“By not reopening schools in high-risk areas, it would reduce the risk of infections; given the positive cases in the state are still high especially in Sibu District,” he said today (Feb 20).
He said this in response to Senior Minister (Education) Dr Mohd Radzi Md Jidin’s announcement on the reopening of schools on Friday.
Rozalix said nevertheless, the association is satisfied with the strict standard operating procedures (SOPs) set by the MoE.
“Even though the SOPs are there, there is also a need for close monitoring by the respective District Education Office from time to time,” he said.
On top of that, he also hoped that parents would play their part in ensuring that the SOPs are complied with.
“As an additional measure, parents are advised to fetch their children according to the time that has been set to so that their children would not have to wait for a long time and prevent any exposure to Covid-19,” he said.
Rozalix also extended his message to the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) in hopes that they would continue to provide assistance to schools and as well as cooperation in a joint effort to curb the spread of Covid-19.
On another note, he urged parents to put their focus on their children’s education; especially those will sit for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination tomorrow (Feb 22).
“Do spend time with your children, especially when they are doing their revision, and give them words of encouragement.
“This is very much needed by the children as they feel stressed with the online learning system,” he said.
He said both the teachers and students have done their best and now is the time for parents to show their support.
“Mapim Sarawak also hopes that the PTA will be able to donate examination equipment and drinks to the students while they are sitting for the exam as a sign of support,” he said.
He added with all the support and cooperation of all involved, he is confident that the quality of education in Sarawak will continue to progress.
