Wong Kah Woh stated that the standard operating procedures (SOP) implemented by the Education Ministry (MOE) in April last year to prevent the spread of Covid-19 in schools are still in effect.
According to the Deputy Education Minister, these SOPs include encouraging teachers and students to wear face masks and practice good personal hygiene. School staff members are also required to self-test if they exhibit any symptoms of the virus.
He added that while the situation regarding Covid-19 may change, the MOE will continue to collaborate with the Health Ministry (MOH) to adjust their methods or SOPs accordingly in order to prevent the spread of the virus.
Wong made these remarks to reporters at the Semarak Taiping program, saying that the MOE would work closely with the MOH if there were to be an outbreak of Covid-19 in schools.
On Dec 29, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad assured that the situation in the country was still under control and that most cases reported were mild, not requiring hospital treatment. No new variants had been detected at that time.
When asked if the MOE would close schools affected by the spread of Covid-19, Wong stated that each case would be handled carefully and that advice from the MOH would be sought for further action in a serious situation.
He also mentioned that the details of the SOPs would be finalized after discussions with the MOH, and that the situation would be assessed after schools reopened on Jan 2.
Regarding the relaxation of sportswear in schools due to the hot weather, Wong revealed that no decision had been made by the MOE in terms of a time frame for implementation. He emphasized that the comfort of the students in their learning was a priority for the MOE, especially for those affected by the floods on the east coast.
Back in May 20, the MOE did not specify a time frame for special permission to wear appropriate sports attire during hot weather, stating that it depended on weather conditions, Fadhlina Sidek was quoted saying.
