Minister of Education Dr Radzi Jidin announced on 12 September that schools will begin physical classes on 3 October, according to the phases in the National Recovery Plan (NRP).
However, he said that parents can choose not to send their children to school if they are worried about the risk of Covid-19, provided that they write a letter to inform the school of their child’s absence.
He assured that the student’s absence will not be considered a disciplinary offence and no warning letter would be issued, reported BERNAMA.
Additionally, Radzi said that it is not compulsory for students to wear uniforms if they no longer fit, and are allowed to wear their own clothes, provided they are neat and appropriate.
“We don’t want to put pressure on parents to provide new clothes. Our only goal is to bring the children back to school,” he said.
Meanwhile, students will be required to wear face masks at all times and are encouraged to wear double masks. Radzi said the government will supply face masks to students from low-income families.
He also added that students will continue to have recess in their classrooms under the supervision of the teacher. However, for classes that use air conditioning, students would have to eat in the open under the supervision of the teacher.
To curb the spread of Covid-19 in schools, students found with symptoms while at school will undergo a saliva test and will be placed in isolation rooms.
Radzi explained that if a Covid-19 case is detected in the school, a report will be made to the District Health Centre (PKD) for further action.
Also read: Education Minister: Schools To Reopen According To Phases From 3 October
