NIBONG TEBAL, Oct 11 — The Education Ministry (MOE) is encouraging the use of face masks in all schools to curb the spread of infectious diseases such as influenza-like illness, not only among students but also teachers and school staff.
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the MOE has aligned its current guidelines or standard operating procedures (SOPs) with the Health Ministry (MOH), which include preventive measures covering health care, safety, and hygiene in schools.
“The ministry is closely monitoring this situation. We have reminded directors and MOE’s senior leadership in all states to implement the measures outlined under our guidelines.
“These guidelines, along with MOH’s recommendations, serve as a reminder to conduct monitoring, implement preventive steps to maintain health, safety and hygiene, and encourage mask-wearing in schools,” she told reporters here today.
Fadhlina said while influenza cases have been detected in schools, the situation is under control, with continuous monitoring underway.
She said the MOE has urged school administrators to remain vigilant and ensure full compliance with the SOPs to contain the outbreak and safeguard the well-being of the school community.
“We will continue to monitor our students and teachers. We are aware the school community is large, so attention must be given not only to students’ safety but also to that of teachers. Once again, we remind administrators to take precautions and safety measures to prevent a further spread, in accordance with our SOPs,” she added.
Commenting on the possibility of school closures if influenza cases rise further, she said such a decision would only be made after all preventive measures have been implemented.
“According to the MOE’s SOPs, we will only consider closure after all the required preventive steps have been taken and complied with, as these measures must first be followed to ensure we can control the spread of infection,” Fadhlina said.
