SHAH ALAM, Oct 16 — SK Sijangkang Jaya, which was damaged by a storm yesterday, has been advised to suspend classes until the structural safety of the building is guaranteed.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said the advice was issued by the Public Works Department (JKR) yesterday after a structural inspection and safety assessment.
“The Selangor JKR Electrical Engineering Branch is also carrying out an inspection on the building’s wiring system as an early measure to avoid any accidents,” he said in a statement last night.
Yesterday, a storm wreaked havoc in the area, damaging buildings and injuring several people. The incident has been classified as a Level 1 disaster.
Alexander said SK Sijangkang Jaya sustained significant damage after a large portion of its roof was blown away by the strong winds, while a new building block under the High-Density School programme, which was handed over earlier yesterday, sustained minor damage.
“The contractor has been instructed to carry out immediate repairs,” he said.
Alexander also extended his sympathies to victims of the building collapse at the Sijangkang state assembly coordination office in Dewan Wawasan Kampung Medan, Telok Panglima Garang, Kuala Langat.
“I have been informed that a woman was injured after being trapped under the debris, and was successfully rescued by firefighters before being handed over to the medical team for treatment.
“Several students were also reported to have suffered minor injuries when a nearby Kafa (Al-Quran and Fardhu Ain class) surau collapsed during the storm.”
The minister said JKR is preparing cost estimates for cleanup and asset protection to prevent further damage.
“I have instructed that all necessary actions be carried out promptly and appropriately. I also urge the public to remain cautious and avoid entering damaged areas to prevent any untoward incidents,” he said.
Meanwhile, according to a Bernama report, the Education Ministry (MOE) announced that cleanup and safety assessments are underway at three other schools — SMK Sijangkang Jaya, SK Kampung Medan, and SK Jalan Tanjung.
The MOE said repairs will start immediately after the assessments are complete to ensure the facilities can be made operational as soon as possible.
“All affected schools will implement home-based teaching and learning (PdPR) for the time being to ensure the learning process continues while prioritising the safety of students, teachers, and all school staff,” the MOE said in a statement.
The ministry also urged state education departments, district education offices and school administrators nationwide to enhance preparedness in facing the current unpredictable weather, and ensure the well-being and safety of all education personnel and students.
