Despite the ongoing monsoon season and rising flood risks across several states, the 2025 SPM examination proceeded smoothly, with the Education Ministry activating a comprehensive emergency plan to ensure no candidate misses their papers.
Education director-general Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad said 259 candidates had been identified as flood-risk cases, with most already relocated to school hostels before examinations began.
“We have identified centres at risk and early relocation arrangements have been made”, he said during a visit to SMK Putrajaya Presint 11 (1)
Early Mapping and Relocation Efforts
According to Mohd Azam, the ministry began mapping flood risks as early as September, identifying students in flood-prone zones, especially those living near rivers or low-lying areas.
“Some of the students were relocated in advance to nearby hostels to prevent the risk of missing out on the exam.” he said, adding that the early intervention helped ease families concerns as continuous rainfall is forecast in several states.
To prepare for potential disruptions, the minority conducted flood simulation exercises in Kuala Terengganu in September and October and has been coordinating closely with MetMalaysia for daily weather updates.
Safeguards for Flooded Centres
For examination centres near overflowing rivers or those used as temporary relief shelters, the ministry has activated alternative safeguards.
These includes:
- Securing examination papers at police stations
- Shifting exams from halls to classrooms
- Relocating candidates to alternative schools required
“Plans are in place for every scenario”, Mohd Azam said, assuring parents and students that examinations would not be compromised.
Nationwide Coordination Ensures Smooth Start
All 16 states education departments confirmed that the SPM began as scheduled. Mohd Azam praised the seamless coordination among government agencies, schools, parents, and community groups.
“These proactive steps ensure that SPM 2025 can be carried out smoothly despite the seasonal challenges,” he said.
On 23rd November, Education Minister YB Fadhlina Sidek confirmed that Ops Payung had also been activated to support flood-affected areas. The operation involves collaboration with the National Security Council, police, Fire and Rescue Department and other agencies to ensure candidate safety.
SPM Returns to Traditional Timetane
This year marks the return of SPM to it’s traditional November-December schedule after several years of pandemic-driven timetable changes. A total of 413, 372 candidates are siting for SPM 2025, including:
- 358,817 students from government schools
- 8051 from government-linked agencies
- 6,676 from state religious schools
- 13,836 from private schools
- 23,741 private candidates
- 2,251 from independent religious schools
The total number reflects a 2.6% increase from last year’s 402, 956 candidates.
No Evidence of Paper Leaks, Says DG
Addressing viral social media rumours claiming leaked exam papers and guaranteed grades, Mohd Azam said no official reports have been filed.
“From what I have seen, we have not received any official reports. Such information was obtained from social media,” he said stressing that the Malaysian Examinations Board (MEB) has established protocols for handling such issues.
“I am confident they have procedures in place because I have served as director myself. We have established protocols to address such matters. For now, we believe SPM questions remain secure,” he added.
The ministry, together with the MEB, state and district education officers, NADMA, Civil Defence Force, Fire and Rescue Department and police, continues providing full logistic and safety support throughout the exam period.
SPM 2025 runs from 3rd November to 23rd December, beginning with oral assessments and followed by core written papers such as Bahasa Melayu
Sources: Prime Minister’s Department
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