Kuching: The decision to work to support their families is one of the main reasons why some 2024 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) candidates in Sarawak were absent for all written examination papers, according to the state education director. Without disclosing the number of affected candidates, Omar Mahli said schools had implemented various intervention measures to ensure students sit for their exams.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, schools have carried out interventions at the school level, with teachers visiting students' homes to bring them to school for their examinations. Omar Mahli explained that despite these efforts, there is little that can be done when students choose not to attend. He emphasized the importance of parental support in ensuring that students attend school to take their exams.

Previously, the Ministry of Education reported that as of February 6, a total of 8,076 candidates for the 2024 SPM examination had been absent for all written papers. Omar also noted that some candidates missed their written exams due to health reasons or prolonged illnesses, which he described as unavoidable. He assured that opportunities would be provided for unwell students to sit for the exam in the future if they apply.

On the commencement of the 2025/2026 school session, Omar mentioned that the state education department has received 1,312 new contract-based teachers to address the teacher shortage in Sarawak. Overall, 430,796 students started their first day of school in Sarawak, comprising 240,498 primary school pupils and 190,298 secondary school students.