Bintulu parents gear up for new school year amid flood concerns

BINTULU (Jan 10): Parents across the division are bustling with anticipation as they prepare school necessities for their children ahead of the new academic year, which commence on Jan 12.

Many have been purchasing uniforms and supplies at local shopping centres and businesses, with school registrations also taking place.

Private-sector employee Kamisah Joini, 44, expressed her excitement while accompanying her seven-year-old daughter, Orkid Nurnazmeen Mohd Zukifli, to shop for uniforms before enrolling her in Year One at Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Asyakirin Bintulu.

“I am very excited as this is the first time I am sending my child to primary school,” she said.

“My main priority is to be careful with spending because I am worried about possible flooding, given the current bad weather. Last year’s floods damaged many of our household items,” she explained.

Another parent, private-sector employee Yvonnie Emillia Abdullah, 44, is preparing two children – one for Year Four and another to kindergarten.

“All preparations are complete. We have reused some items that are still in good condition and also bought a few additional things,” she said, adding that she had also received a checklist of required items from teachers.

Echoing Kamisah’s caution, Yvonnie said she must spend prudently for her two school-going children, especially with the threat of recurring flooding, which could strain the family budget.

“This includes setting aside funds in preparation for upcoming festive celebrations like Hari Raya,” she added.