A TOTAL of 41 clusters linked to educational institutions have been traced in the past three months since the gradual resumption of physical classes in January, said Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah.  

“From January 1, 2021 to today, 15 tertiary clusters, 11 secondary schools clusters, 10 primary and pre-schools clusters and, five tahfiz schools and madrasah clusters have been detected,” Noor Hisham said in a statement today, adding that a total of 811 clusters were found during the same period. 

Today, the Health Ministry traced three new clusters at learning institutions. 

They are Paloh Rambai in Kelantan, Merinding in Labuan and Persiaran Maktab in Selangor.

Paloh Rambai has so far reported 20 cases, Persiaran Maktab recorded seven and Merinding logged five. 

Starting January 20 this year, the Education Ministry (MoE) announced that educational institutions would be reopened for physical sessions in phases for those who are who are sitting for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia, Sijil Vokasional Malaysia, Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia and Sijil Tinggi Agama Malaysia examinations, including special needs.

On March 1, this opening was extended to primary and pre-schools. 

Noor Hisham said he understands MoE’s concern to reopen education institutions, so students are not left behind with their studies. 

However, he reminded all parties to always comply with the standard operating procedure (SOP) so that they can continue learning in safe conditions. 

“MoH would like to remind all parties, especially administrators, teachers, parents or guardians, canteen operators, school vehicle drivers as well as students to always obey the SOP and guidelines for management and operations of schools in the new norm,” he said.  

Noor Hisham said following the SOP would make the learning place more conducive and would reduce the risk of Covid-19 transmissions. 

He added that the SOP and advice by MoH should be practised before, during and after school hours.  

Noor Hisham added that the MoH, in collaboration with MoE would always ensure that health and safety of the people in educational institutions be given continuous priority. – March 25, 2021.