SPM candidates sitting for exam relieved to be relocated to temporary hostels

ALOR SETAR: Several Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) candidates affected by the floods in the state feel relieved as they will be relocated to temporary hostels in preparation for their exams.

Muhammad Zairil Baharnordin, 17, a student from Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Seri Gunong, shared that after his house in Alor Gonchar was submerged up to chest level since last Thursday (Nov 28), he and his family had to move to the Dewan Seri Gunong temporary relief centre (PPS).

“All my books got wet from the floodwaters, and I had to borrow books and notes from my friends to revise. Although it’s uncomfortable, I have no choice but to study here at the PPS.

“I am also anxious about the Malay language oral test on Tuesday, but I will do my best. Today, my teacher came to pick me and three other friends from the PPS to stay at the SMK Alor Janggus hostel and take the exam there,” he said when met on Sunday (Dec 1).

His schoolmate, Nur Hasmira Najwa Hasan, 17, also admitted that it was difficult to revise in the PPS but felt grateful when she was informed she would be transferred to another school hostel.

Nut Hasmira had been transferred to the PPS at Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Gunong after her house was flooded a few days ago.

For Nur Intan Aliesya Zamri, 17, the floods did not stop her from focusing on her exam, as she had made prior preparations.

Earlier, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek announced that the 2024 SPM Malay language oral test in all flood-affected states, including Kelantan, Terengganu, and Kedah, would proceed as scheduled from Monday (Dec 2) to Thursday (Dec 5).

A total of 5,377 SPM candidates have been identified as affected by the floods in three states: 3,111 candidates in Kelantan, 1,734 candidates in Terengganu, and 532 candidates in Kedah.

All affected candidates will be accommodated in hostels or relocated to alternative examination centres to ensure that they can sit for their exams with comfort, according to the scheduled dates. – Bernama