NIBONG TEBAL, January 12 — The Ministry of Education (MOE) is actively seeking opinions and feedback from various stakeholders regarding guidelines for students wearing uniforms to school, according to Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek. She clarified that no final decision has been reached on this matter, and the ministry continues to collect views and suggestions from all parties, including parents. Fadhlina emphasized that until a decision is made, the existing regulations on school attire remain in force. The ministry’s move comes as part of an inclusive approach to involve the community in shaping policies related to student uniforms.
Responding to questions about the guidelines for the 2024 school session, Fadhlina stated that the ministry’s decision-making process is ongoing, and no specific timeline for the finalization of guidelines has been provided. In May of the previous year, the MOE had temporarily allowed students and teachers in all educational institutions to wear sports attire due to hot weather conditions. Fadhlina Sidek, who is also the Member of Parliament for Nibong Tebal, addressed these queries during a working visit to Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Seri Nibong.
In addition to the uniform-related discussions, Fadhlina shared insights into the preparedness of teachers for the implementation of home-based Teaching and Learning (PdPR) sessions. This move is especially pertinent due to the scheduled water supply disruption affecting schools in Penang for four days. Fadhlina assured that teachers are ready for the PdPR sessions, and adequate water supply is being provided to boarding schools. The minister emphasized the smooth running of water storage arrangements, particularly in boarding schools, during this period. All schools in Penang, except for Form Five and Pre-University College students, are currently undergoing the PdPR sessions in response to the water supply disruption.
