Malaysian heatwave too hot to handle?

Malaysian schools prepare to close due to rising temperatures. Malaysia’s education ministry announced in April that schools can close if temperatures exceed 37°C for three consecutive days.

The circular was issued after two children - an 11-year old boy and 19-month old girl - died from heatstroke in Kelantan. Subsequently on the morning of 1 May, the heatwave claimed the life of a 12-year old boy from Kluang, Johor. The boy showed symptoms such as a fever without sweat, muscle cramps, vomiting, constant urination and passing motion two days prior. According to Zoom Earth, temperatures across Malaysia range from 34°C to 38°C. The Malaysian Meteorological Department considers temperatures above 35°C for three days in a location to be a heatwave. The heatwave is predicted to be one of the worst across Asia. This is due to the effects of El Nino which will herald more hot weather and drought to the region.

What are Singapore schools doing about its high temperatures? In addition to closing schools, Malaysian states make necessary arrangements for students and faculty. These include allowing students to attend classes in sports attire instead of their baju melayu or baju kurung. Despite the climbing temperatures, the education ministry has no plans to implement online classes. Instead, replacement days would be suggested by the respective state education directors. Singapore’s temperature is not far off from Malaysia’s, measuring an approximate 36°C. However, there have been no recorded deaths in Singapore as of April 2023. Yet, Singapore schools have stated that they do implement precautionary measures to beat the heat.

At Hwa Chong Institution, no outdoor lessons are scheduled from 10.30am to 3.30pm when the heat and ultraviolet levels are typically higher. Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) ensures all new students go through a medical screening which includes an electrocardiogram test.

Schools also encourage students to stay hydrated before, during, and after physical activities to prevent and alleviate exercise-induced heat strain. Other schools have also begun relaxing their rules on uniforms.