SHAH ALAM: In a unique turn of events, two out of the 73,899 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) candidates in Selangor are taking their examinations in prison settings this year. The Selangor Education Department (JPNS) director, Dr. Jafri Abu, disclosed this information, highlighting the diverse circumstances under which students are completing their exams.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr. Jafri further noted that an additional 25 candidates are sitting for their exams in hospitals. These exams, which began today, will continue until February 6. "We have candidates taking their exams in hospitals and prisons. As of this morning, 25 candidates are in hospitals across the state, while two are sitting for their exams in prison," Dr. Jafri stated.

Efforts have been made by the education authorities to ensure that all candidates, regardless of their circumstances, have the necessary environment to complete their exams. Dr. Jafri, speaking after visiting Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Seksyen 9, affirmed that comprehensive arrangements are in place to facilitate these examinations.

In Selangor, the exams are being conducted at 494 centres, with a workforce of 7,651 examination officers managing the process. Dr. Jafri also confirmed that, as of now, none of the examination centres in Selangor are affected by flooding, although the department is prepared for any possible disruptions. "So far, conditions in Selangor are good with no schools or exam centres affected by floods or located in flood-prone areas," he assured.

On a national level, over 400,000 candidates have registered for the SPM exams, taking place at 3,000 centres across the country. This widespread initiative underscores the importance of the SPM exams in the Malaysian education system.