KUCHING: A total of 28 schools in Sarawak were unable to operate this morning due to flooding, following a reassessment and new reports from affected districts.
Earlier, State Education Department (JPNS) director Omar Mahli said a report issued yesterday morning stated that 42 schools would be unable to operate yesterday (Jan 11).
“However, following a meeting with all 42 schools at 10 pm and a reassessment of the situation, the number was reduced to 26 schools that were unable to operate this morning.
“Later that night, the Dalat District Education Office (PPD) reported that two additional schools were affected by floods, bringing the total to 28 schools unable to operate today (Jan 12),” he told reporters during the Early Schooling Aid 2026 at Dewan Al-Muneerah, SMK Petra Jaya here today.
For the record, all 28 schools fall under the supervision of three District Education Offices (PPD), namely Daro, Selangau and Tatau/Sebauh.
Omar added that no damage to school property was reported.
“Although water levels rose, early preparations had been made. Schools were repeatedly reminded to place assets in higher locations to prevent serious damage.
“Except in cases of sudden flash floods, which are unpredictable, assets were generally safeguarded. At this point, no reports of serious damage have been received from district education offices,” he added.
In the meantime, the affected schools have been advised to conduct home-based teaching and learning (PDPR), which has been identified as the best option under the circumstances.
“That is the best option currently proposed. Moreover, during the first week, schools are conducting orientation sessions and fun learning activities as part of the first week of schooling,” he said.
