KUALA LUMPUR: The attendance rate for candidates sitting for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) 2024 examinations has reached an impressive 97 percent, as confirmed by Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek. This comes as the Education Ministry continues to update its data, with around 10,000 candidates yet to confirm their participation in the annual examinations.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fadhlina expressed optimism about improving the attendance rate further during a press conference on the SPM 2024 examinations. The minister highlighted the inclusion of special needs candidates across all states, notably mentioning two 63-year-old candidates from Negeri Sembilan who are also participating.
To ensure smooth examination operations and safeguard student welfare, Deputy Minister Wong Kah Woh, Education director-general Azman Adnan, MOE secretary-general Datuk Ruji Ubi, and State Education Department directors are actively monitoring the process. This includes overseeing candidates taking exams in hospitals and detention centers.
Fadhlina also addressed the ministry’s preparedness to implement ‘Ops Payung’ in the event of floods. This initiative aims to support affected candidates and examination personnel by providing accommodations in school dormitories or temporary relief centers, alongside logistical assistance to ensure access to examination centers. The MOE’s flood preparedness focuses on six states prone to flooding: Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah, Pahang, Johor, and Sabah.
The minister further revealed that 5,780 volunteer examination personnel, including retired teachers, have been appointed to assist during the SPM 2024 examination period. The MOE is closely monitoring preparations and volunteer appointments to prevent incidents such as exam paper leaks. The appointment of volunteers is part of the MOE’s strategy to ensure at least 20 percent of staffing needs are met in every state.
A total of 402,956 candidates have registered for the SPM 2024 written examination, which commenced today and will continue until February 6.