Fatimah during a walkabout at the girls’ hostel of SMK Dalat, which has been declared unsafe by JKR, on Monday.
DALAT (June 8): Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah has called for urgent action to address safety concerns at the girls’ hostel of SMK Dalat, which has been declared unsafe but continues to accommodate students.
Speaking during the handover ceremony for completed projects at SMK Dalat and SMK Semop, held at SMK Dalat on Monday, Fatimah said the hostel was not included in the approved scope of works despite concerns over its condition.
“The first thing is safety. What we are concerned about is the safety of our students,” she said.
Fatimah, who is also Dalat assemblywoman said, the nearly 48-year-old school comprises several ageing wooden structures that have deteriorated over time, with termite infestation contributing to the weakening of parts of the buildings.
She said the girls’ hostel, located adjacent to one of the old school blocks, remains occupied although it has been declared unsafe by the Public Works Department (JKR).
“I was informed that it has already been declared unsafe. However, it was not included in the project scope, and our girls are still staying there,” she said.
The girls’ hostel of SMK Dalat in a deteriorating condition.
Fatimah noted that while the hostel was clean and well maintained by its occupants, visible signs of deterioration, including termite-damaged window frames, underscored the need for immediate intervention.
She also raised concerns over the condition of teachers’ quarters, describing them as unsuitable despite the important role educators play in nurturing future generations.
The minister said a special project approved in 2020 had provided for the construction of 18 classrooms at SMK Dalat, compared to the 36 classrooms originally requested by the school.
While expressing appreciation for the approved allocation, she said further improvements remained necessary, including additional classrooms, a dining hall, hostel upgrades and other supporting facilities.
“Something needs to be done. There are still many things that require attention and improvement for the safety and wellbeing of students and teachers,” she said.
Fatimah also highlighted concerns over SK Kampung Balan, which has received approval under a separate school redevelopment project but requires an additional RM5 million allocation before works can proceed.
She warned that delays could pose risks to the school due to its location near a river.
Despite the challenges, Fatimah expressed gratitude for the development assistance received and voiced hope that the outstanding needs of both schools would be addressed in the future.
Among those present during the handover ceremony were Works Minister Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi and Tanjung Manis MP Datuk Yusuf Abdul Wahab.
