COVID-19 | The Education Ministry has ordered 298 schools within the Petaling district to close as the area slips into a Covid-19 red zone.

It said the closure is effective Oct 12 and will last until Oct 25.

The Petaling district has three municipalities, namely Petaling Jaya, Shah Alam, and Subang Jaya.

"In line with the prime minister's special address on Oct 6 on the government's decision to shut down schools in areas confirmed by the Health Ministry as red zones, the Education Ministry would like to inform that all schools in red zones in Petaling, Selangor will be closed from Oct 12 to Oct 25.

"This involves 298 schools in the entire Petaling district. They include primary and secondary schools under the Education Ministry as well as private schools registered with the Education Ministry," said the Education Ministry in a statement this evening.

It added that schools with dormitories including vocational colleges will also be closed.

"Parents and guardians must claim students who are living in school dormitories.

"However, students who are waiting for their parents and guardians can remain at the dormitories of schools and vocational colleges throughout the school closure period under the care of the dormitory warden.

"Food and drinks will be provided by the school throughout the period," it said.

The Education Ministry said during the closure period, school principals and headmasters must ensure that teachers and students continue with classes through e-learning.

It also noted that many schools are presently having their trial SPM examinations.

The Education Ministry said the schools will be allowed to reschedule the trial examinations.

The Education Ministry added that it is monitoring the situation nationwide and is working closely with the National Security Council and Health Ministry.

A list of the 298 schools that have to close is as follows: