Storm damages four schools in Kepala Batas, Malaysia

Kepala Batas, a region in Penang, Malaysia, is grappling with the aftermath of a severe storm that struck on the evening of May 1st. The storm's fury left a trail of destruction, with four schools identified as having sustained significant damage. The most heavily impacted institution is SMK Datuk Haji Abdul Kadir, followed by SK Hashim Awang, SMK Gemilang, and SMK Permatang Tok Jaya.

According to Mohamad Dziauddin Mat Saad, Director of the Penang State Education Department (JPNPP), the damage primarily involved roofs being ripped off and blown away by the strong winds. Fortunately, no students or school staff were injured during the incident, which occurred around 7 p.m. The department has since shifted its focus from immediate safety concerns to cleanup operations, aiming to ensure that students, especially boarders returning on Sunday, can resume their studies in a safe environment on Monday.

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Jadi, kita (JPNPP) telah selesai isu itu (keselamatan) dan bermula hari ini (Jumaat), Sabtu dan Ahad, kita nak fokus tentang kerja-kerja pembersihan pula bagi memastikan anak-anak yang akan memasuki asrama pada hari Ahad berada dalam keadaan selamat sekali gus membolehkan sesi persekolahan pada hari Isnin berjalan dengan teratur.

Temporary classrooms are being arranged for affected classes to ensure the continuity of education. The estimated cost of damages at SMK Datuk Haji Abdul Kadir alone is around RM300,000, according to initial assessments by the Public Works Department (JKR). However, this figure is expected to rise significantly once internal damages, including potential harm to electrical wiring and equipment due to rainwater ingress, are factored in, with total losses potentially reaching RM400,000 to RM500,000. The JKR and the state Education Department are expected to provide a more precise cost analysis in the coming days.

The storm also affected over 70 other premises, including residential homes and the Kepala Batas Fire and Rescue Station. Several large trees were uprooted, crushing vehicles and damaging houses. The swift response from the JPNPP and local authorities highlights the community's resilience in the face of natural adversity, prioritizing the return to normalcy for students and the restoration of educational facilities.

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Tapi, itu (anggaran) untuk luaran atau struktur (bangunan) sahaja. Kalau melihat keadaan hujan (air) yang masuk ke dalam bangunan, pendawaian juga mungkin terkesan dan pastinya ada peralatan serta peralatan yang rosak. Jadi, (kerugian) mungkin mencecah antara RM400,000 hingga ke RM500,000.