MOE activates OPS Payung to ensure SPM exams proceed smoothly during floods, with students relocated to hostels and online learning implemented
KOTA BHARU: The Ministry of Education is intensifying flood preparedness measures amid unpredictable weather conditions over the coming days.
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said priority is ensuring Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia candidates can sit for examinations without disruption.
“I managed to visit four schools today and witnessed the process of relocating students to hostels as an early safety measure,” she told reporters after visiting the Temporary Evacuation Centre at Sekolah Kebangsaan Tapang.
She confirmed OPS Payung has been activated as part of comprehensive preparedness efforts.
This operation involves cooperation between multiple agencies including the National Security Council, Royal Malaysia Police, Fire and Rescue Department, and Civil Defence Force.
“OPS Payung is a standard practice during floods, and it ensures that students’ safety can be closely monitored, especially SPM candidates,” she explained.
Most SPM candidates in high-risk areas have already been placed in hostels as a precautionary measure.
The ministry is prepared to relocate stranded candidates using assets from relevant security agencies if necessary.
“Alhamdulillah, the Kelantan Education Department has extensive experience and has demonstrated a good level of preparedness,” Fadhlina added.
For students not involved in SPM examinations, online teaching and learning will be implemented in flood-affected schools.
This approach avoids disrupting evacuation centre operations and ensures examination processes continue uninterrupted.
“There are no issues regarding school uniforms,” Fadhlina stated.
“What matters is that they dress neatly and attend school or follow online learning as usual.”
The minister expressed concern for students not staying in hostels but assured all agencies are fully prepared with established procedures.
“Based on the briefings we received, all agencies know how to manage such situations based on past experience,” she said.
“We hope the weather improves and the examination can proceed smoothly.” – Bernama
