THE standard operating procedure (SOP) to curb the spread of Covid-19 in schools, issued in April by the Education Ministry (MOE), was still applicable, Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh said.

Wong said the SOP encouraged the use of face masks in schools, students and staff self-testing if they were symptomatic, and maintaining personal hygiene.

“However, we know the Covid-19 situation may change, and the MOE will always discuss and collaborate with the Health Ministry (MOH) regarding our SOP to prevent the spread of Covid-19,” he told reporters in Taiping last night.

He said this when asked what steps the government would take in the event of a Covid-19 outbreak in schools.

On December 29, Health Minister Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the situation was under control, with most cases mildly symptomatic and no new variant detected.

Asked if the MOE would temporarily close schools affected by the spread of Covid-19, Wong said the ministry would seek MOH’s advice for further action if the situation becomes serious.

He said the SOP would be finalised after discussions with the MOH.

Wong said the MOE has not discussed the matter of less strict rules on sportswear at schools.

He said although the weather has normalised, there were several schools on the east coast affected by floods. – Bernama, January 1, 2024.