By Nityaasini Sivagami
19th February: The number of Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) candidates absent from all written exams in 2024 dropped to 8,076 from 10,160 in 2023, Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh told the Dewan Rakyat. Of these, 6,231 were from government schools, down from 8,676 the previous year. (Source: The Star)
Responding to a question from Zakri Hasan (PN-Kangar), Wong said ministry interventions and initiatives contributed to the decline in absenteeism. Reasons for absences included work, domestic issues, natural disasters, and health concerns. (Source: The Star)
The ministry has implemented targeted engagement programs such as the Ziarah Cakna Programme, parent consultations, and collaborations with Parent-Teacher Associations. (Source: The Star)
Additionally, key agencies including the National Disaster Management Agency, the Malaysian Armed Forces, and the Health Ministry are working with the education sector to ensure exams proceed smoothly, especially during the monsoon season. (Source: The Star)
