DALAT: The girls' hostel at SMK Dalat has been declared unsafe by the Public Works Department (JKR), but students are still living there due to a lack of alternative accommodation.

Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, who is also Dalat assemblywoman, raised the issue during a visit to the school on Monday.

"The first thing is safety. What we are concerned about is the safety of our students," she said.

The nearly 48-year-old school comprises several ageing wooden structures, with termite infestation weakening parts of the buildings. The girls' hostel — located next to one of the old school blocks — remains occupied despite JKR's safety assessment.

Fatimah noted that while the hostel is clean and well maintained by its occupants, visible signs of deterioration, including termite-damaged window frames, underscore the need for immediate action.

The hostel was reportedly not included in the approved scope of renovation works for the school.

Location: SMK Dalat, Dalat, Sarawak
Details: Girls' hostel declared unsafe by JKR but still in use; Minister calls for urgent action; 48-year-old school with termite damage; renovation project did not cover hostel

Source: The Borneo Post

What do you think? Should student safety be prioritised faster?