HULU TERENGGANU: Only 13 students of Sekolah Kebangsaan Sungai Berua (SKSB) in Kuala Berang showed up in school today, while 96 others followed their parents who have been moving about for the past few days.
It is learned that the movement of over 150 Orang Asli in the Berua River began in the past week due to safety reasons, following the arrival of several Orang Asli from Kuala Koh in Gua Musang, Kelantan at their village, who were said to have fled their homes following a fatal mysterious disease.
Director of the Terengganu State Education Department (JPNT) Shafruddin Ali Hussin said based on medical examination conducted, all 13 students were found to be free of acute diarrhoea or acute gastroenteritis (AGE).
He said a total of 12 teachers were given training to ensure the school session goes smoothly without any glitches.
“From our visit, we are happy to note that the school and learning sessions are progressing as usual.
“All students attending school today did not exhibit the symptoms of AGE disease infection,” he said today.
Last week, one of the 23 Orang Asli from Sungai Berua who was referred to the Hulu Terengganu Hospital, was diagnosed with AGE.
Shafruddin said JPNT would monitor the situation from time to time, and hoped that no untoward incidents would occur.
“All students and the school fraternity are encouraged to wear the nose mask as a safety measure, give briefings during school assembly on personal and surrounding hygiene, as well as advising parents on home healthcare.
“JPNT will be collaborating with the nearest health clinic, as well as receiving visits by medical officers from the state health department (JKN).
“The school will also organise AGE enlightenment programmes through talks by the medical officers,” he added.
Shafruddin said his department would also ensure all students attend school as usual.
“Currently, the Hulu Terengganu District Education Office and Terengganu State Health Department are still in the process of coaxing them to return to Sungai Berua to ensure that they do not drop out of school.
“Based on our record, 23 students of the school are eligible to sit for the UPSR examination, but only seven attended classes this week,” he added.