KUCHING: Four primary schools in Sarawak reopened for the new school term yesterday in flooding situation.
They are SK Sungai Anak in Selangau, SK Sungai Tunoh in Kapit, SK Sungai Kelabit in Miri and SK Kampung Klid/Plajau in Dalat.
State Education Department director Dr Azhar Ahmad revealed that a total of 230 pupils, 48 teachers and 26 non-teaching staff were affected by the flood.
The schools open for the new school session yesterday with the flood situation at all four schools reported as ‘under control’.
SK Sungai Anak recorded attendance of 71 pupils (68 percent), 10 teachers and 7 teaching staff.
“As of 8am, the water levels were still rising up to 0.65-metre in the surrounding areas of the school. Two boats were on standby for evacuation of pupils and school staffs.
“The weather was cloudy with light rain. Parents stayed in the school to monitor the flood situation and ready to assist the school in case of emergency,” he told New Sarawak Tribune via WhatsApp yesterday.
Meanwhile, SK Sungai Tunoh recorded 105 pupils, 17 teachers and 9 teaching staff.
“The flood occurred rapidly at about 3am but it only affected the school canteen as it is located on lowland. The other buildings were not affected as they are on highland area.
Meanwhile, SK Sungai Kelabit recorded the presence of 14 pupils, 8 teachers and 2 teaching staff while SK Kpg Klid/Plajau recorded 40 pupils, 13 teachers and 8 teaching staff.
The water levels at both schools were under control and receding slowly as at 8am. “Heavy rainfall coupled with high tide caused flash floods in these lowland area schools. The school staffs are reminded to always be on alert and vigilant of the situation,” Azhar said.
