PUTRAJAYA: The Education Ministry (MOE) will proceed with the 2024 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) Malay Language oral examination in all flood-affected states, including Kelantan, Terengganu, and Kedah, as scheduled from tomorrow until Thursday (Dec 5), following advice from the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA). Minister Fadhlina Sidek confirmed this decision was based on forecasts from the Malaysian Meteorological Department (METMalaysia) regarding the Northeast Monsoon (MTL) situation, expected to persist until February 2025.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fadhlina emphasized that MOE is prepared to conduct examinations during flood situations based on the Ops Payung standard operating procedures (SOP) and the MTL Action Plan. MOE is also collaborating with NADMA, the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF), and the Civil Defence Force (APM) to ensure the smooth conduct of the SPM examinations.
Fadhlina highlighted that 5,377 SPM candidates were identified as being affected by floods in three states: 3
,111 candidates in Kelantan, 1,734 in Terengganu, and 532 in Kedah. All candidates impacted by the floods would be accommodated in hostels or moved to alternative examination centres to ensure they could sit for the exams comfortably and according to schedule.
The relocation of affected candidates is being carried out by the State Education Departments (JPN) in these states. Fadhlina explained that the relocation aims to provide candidates with a conducive hostel environment to continue their studies and prepare systematically for their SPM exams. For learning at hostels and alternative examination centres, textbooks, access to computer labs, and the use of the Digital Educational Learning Initiative Malaysia (DELIMa) platform have been provided.
Fadhlina noted that with the increased number of students in hostels due to the relocation of flood-affected SPM candidates, the ministry will ensure additional hostel necessities, such as quality food provision, are promptly delivered. She also announced that MOE
is allowing flood-affected candidates to forgo wearing uniforms during the examinations and instead opt for any other appropriate attire.
In addition to psychosocial support provided by each JPN for flood-affected candidates, the ministry will also supply examination materials such as stationery. Private candidates are urged to contact their respective JPN or directly visit alternative examination centres to ensure they do not miss out on sitting for the exams.