Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Higher Education (KPT) reminds all higher education institutions (IPT) to take the necessary steps to prevent any possible spread of influenza among students. Its Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir stated that while there has been no reported outbreak within IPTs, the ministry is remaining vigilant and closely monitoring the situation.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, this precautionary measure follows recent reports that have prompted several schools in various states to temporarily close, as directed by their respective District Health Offices (PKD). Additionally, 6,000 school students under the Ministry of Education (MOE) have reportedly contracted the disease. Dr. Zambry emphasized the importance of preemptive action, acknowledging that while the current focus has been on schools, higher education institutions should not dismiss the potential risk.
Dr. Zambry made these comments after attending the closing ceremony of the International Young Future Leaders Summit (iFUTURE) 2025, held at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL). The event also saw the presence of his deputy, Datuk Mustapha Sakmud.
In a related development, the Ministry of Health (MOH) recently reported an alarming rise in influenza cases. In Epidemiology Week 40/2025, a total of 97 clusters of influenza A and B infections were recorded, a significant increase from the 14 clusters noted in the previous week. The majority of these cases occurred in educational institutions, with Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya, Penang, Johor, and Kedah being the most affected areas. Fortunately, most cases presented with mild symptoms.
On a different note, Dr. Zambry commented on the success of the iFUTURE programme, highlighting its role in fostering leadership skills among university students. The summit offered participants from 50 countries the chance to engage in an international setting, building connections that may prove influential as these young individuals step into leadership roles in their respective nations. Dr. Zambry expressed optimism about Malaysia’s potential influence in cultivating future global leaders through such initiatives.