School children staying out of the sun to beat the heat
GEORGE TOWN: With the relentless sun and sweltering temperatures these days, schoolchildren are now prioritising safety and comfort, limiting their outdoor activities.

Wong Gianne, 15, has reduced her outdoor pursuits, citing concerns of exhaustion and muscle fatigue.

The Form Three student of SMK (P) St George’s said that besides limiting her outdoor activities, she also drinks lots of water to stay hydrated.

“Despite my passion for running and cycling, I need to prioritise my wellbeing during this time.

“It is important to adapt to the environmental challenges while maintaining personal health and happiness.

“Several years ago, we saw this in movies, but now it’s happening in our country,” she said after taking part in the “Heatwave Education: Empowering Youth Through Hands-on STEM Project” programme at Dewan Budaya, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) yesterday.

Wong said that through the half-day programme, she learned that the heatwave was caused by climate change and other factors.

Another participant, C. Saabaarish, 14, from SMK Free School, said he has been wearing lightweight, breathable clothing during the hot spells to minimise the risk of heat-related disorders such as heatstroke or dehydration.

“Through this programme, I learnt not only about heatwave and climate change but also how to take preventive measures during the prolonged hot season,” he said, adding that he would share his newfound knowledge with his family and friends.

SMK Bukit Jambul student Danish Eilman Faizal, 17, said he also learnt about global warming.

“During the programme, we also took part in a quiz related to the heatwave.”

USM Build Environment specialist Dr Faizal Baharum said that besides learning about the dangers of heatwaves, the participants were also trained to raise awareness on the subject among their families and peers.

The senior lecturer said heatwaves are a phenomenon caused by climate change.

“Humans will experience dehydration from prolonged exposure to a heatwave. It can cause death if it’s not dealt with properly,” he added.

Faizal said for those who have a serious illness like cancer, the extreme weather could worsen their condition.

He advised the public to limit their outdoor activities, especially those who like exercising.

“Put on a suitable outfit if you really have to be outdoors,” he said.

Some 500 students and their teachers from six secondary schools took part in the programme yesterday.

The event was officiated by Toh Puan Khadijah Mohd Nor, the consort of Penang Governor Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak.

It was organised by USM to raise awareness among secondary school students about heatwaves and to stimulate their interest in renewable energy.

Also present was USM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamed, who said the university was aware of the chronic climate change and its effects on communities.

“The statement by the Health Ministry last month reminded Malaysians about heat-related illnesses.

“As of April 13, 2024, there have been 45 reported cases of heat-related illnesses. This indicates that the heatwave’s effects are highly dangerous,” he said in his speech.
Wong Gianne,SMK (P) St George’s
GEORGE TOWN: With the relentless sun and sweltering temperatures these days, schoolchildren are now prioritising safety and comfort, limiting their outdoor activities.