PUTRAJAYA: The situation in schools nationwide will return to almost normal when they reopen after the Hari Raya break with one exception – everyone must be masked up when indoors.

       Education Minister Datuk Dr Radzi Jidin said all students, teachers and school staff must return for face-to-face lessons, including the unvaccinated, from May 1 onwards. (Refer to graphics for other standard operating procedures.)

       He noted that all students had already returned to schools since April 18 when the rotation system was removed.

       “What is different now is that it is compulsory for everyone to attend – just like before the Covid-19 pandemic,” he said when announcing the new SOP for schools yesterday.

       Previously, students were allowed to continue their lessons via home-based teaching and learning but this leeway is to end, he said, adding that parents must provide a letter explaining their child’s absence if a student does not attend school.

       The end of physical distancing in classrooms would allow teachers to determine the best arrangements for students in the classes, he said.

       He said that previously, the teaching and learning process was difficult as desks had to be placed strategically to ensure physical distancing.

       Now, he said, what is important is that teachers ensure students wear their face masks at all times when in the classrooms.

       Face masks, however, are exempted for teachers who are conducting lessons at the front of the class, and during sports and recreational activities, which are now fully allowed.

       However, physical distancing is still encouraged when people are not wearing masks, he added.

       Although the Health Ministry said masks are not mandatory outdoors, Radzi is encouraging everyone to continue wearing them when in groups.

       As for those attending boarding schools, Radzi said only healthy students without symptoms would be allowed to return to these schools.

       “This is especially important when students return after the Hari Raya break,” he said.

       “I ask everyone, including parents, students and teachers to follow the guidelines so that the schooling sessions can continue (uninterrupted).”