ALOR STAR: The total cost of the damages sustained by schools affected by the recent floods nationwide is still being assessed.
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said funds for disaster-hit schools are available, but accurate data is needed to address the situation effectively.
"We already have initial estimates, but some schools may be more severely affected than others. Therefore, we need accurate figures and reports from the ministry to address these issues immediately.
"There is a disaster allocation that schools can quickly apply for if the damage is extensive enough to disrupt their operations," she said after visiting SMK Seri Gunong to evaluate the aftermath of the floods.
Fadhlina assured that measures are being taken to ensure the upcoming school term proceeds without disruptions, with maintenance and repairs carried out promptly.
"In Kedah, 19 schools were affected (by floods), with several operating through home-based teaching and learning (PdPR). Regular classes will resume once conditions improve.
"We will do our best to physically bring students back to school as soon as possible, but schools must be safe, conducive, and clean for the students," she added.
Yesterday, Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan announced that funds will be channelled to the Education Ministry to expedite repair works in schools damaged by the floods.
Amir said the initiative aims to assist schools in resuming operations as soon as possible.
Meanwhile, Fadhlina said the ministry is prepared for the possibility of a second wave of flooding, following the Malaysian Meteorological Department's (MetMalaysia) forecast of a monsoon surge from today until Dec 11.
"Ops Payung has been activated, ensuring not only safety and welfare preparations but also comprehensive measures, including those related to Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examinations.
"All officers and agencies involved are ready to respond to any eventuality. Insha Allah, we are well-prepared," she added.