By Dayangku Hidayatul
KUCHING, May 13: Intensive measures must be implemented to prevent another electrocution tragedy in schools, particularly in rural areas, said Daro assemblyman Dr Safiee Ahmad.
He said the recent fatal incident involving a student who was reportedly electrocuted while performing ablution serves as a stark reminder that school safety systems, especially electrical wiring and basic infrastructure, require urgent review and upgrading.
Speaking during the debate on the motion of thanks on TYT address in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly Sitting today, he stressed that education is not solely about academic achievement, but also about ensuring rural students have access to safe, comfortable and conducive learning environments.
“This incident should serve as a catalyst for a comprehensive inspection of electrical wiring systems, basic facilities and safety procedures in schools, especially those with wooden structures and boarding facilities, to ensure similar incidents do not recur,” he said.
On May 6, a 16-year-old Form Four student died after reportedly being electrocuted while performing ablution at a secondary school in Daro in an incident involving three male students. Another 15-year-old Form Three student was rushed to Daro Hospital before being transferred to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Sibu Hospital, while a third 15-year-old student escaped unharmed.
Safiee also raised concerns over the long-standing soil erosion threat at SK Batang Lassa, which he said continues to jeopardise the safety of students and school staff.
He called for the construction of a temporary school building to be expedited as an interim safety measure.
He added that the Reconstruction of Dilapidated Buildings and Additional Buildings Project at SK Batang Lassa, Daro had already been approved and should be accelerated without further delay.
On SK Penasu, he said the relocation and reconstruction project had been classified as a “sick project” following the termination of the contractor’s services.
He urged the Public Works Department (JKR) to expedite the appointment of a new contractor to avoid further setbacks, noting that the project is already more than a year behind schedule. — DayakDaily
