Ipoh: A total of 252 schools in Perak have been classified as under-enrolled schools (SKM) this year, each with fewer than 150 students, said State Education Director Zulkafli Mohamed Mokhtar. He highlighted that the Kuala Kangsar District Education Office recorded the highest number of SKM, with 33 schools, followed by Bagan Datuk with 32 schools, and Batang Padang with 30 schools.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Tamil National-Type Schools (SJK(T)) accounted for the largest number of under-enrolled schools at 91, followed by National Schools (SK) with 79, Chinese National-Type Schools (SJK(C)) with 70, and Orang Asli National Schools with 12. Zulkafli noted that some schools operate with as few as five to seven students. Factors contributing to low enrolment include historical and geographical considerations and families relocating.

Zulkafli shared these insights during the First Day at School programme at Sekolah Kebangsaan Raja Perempuan Muzwin, attended by Perak police chief Datuk Noor Hisam Nordin.
In his speech, Zulkafli emphasized that the Safe School concept extends beyond physical safety to include students’ emotional well-being. He provided examples such as safe routes, adherence to discipline, and measures to prevent bullying and sexual crimes. Students are encouraged to follow traffic rules, use designated routes, and practice respect and discipline.