TATAU: A school principal here has gone above and beyond his duty as an educator – braving floodwaters and travelling 60 kilometres just to ensure his flood affected students could sit for their Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination.
The unsung hero, Dr Layang Ugek of Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Tatau, with determination in his heart, has manoeuvred his four-wheel-drive vehicle through submerged roads in Sangan, making his way to pick up his students – Watson from Rumah Serai, Sungai Muput, and Cynthia from Rumah Kelisop, Nanga Pelawan Ulu Anap, Tatau.
It was not an easy journey, Cynthia’s father had to send her by longboat for an hour and a half to Rumah Steven, where she was then taken to Rumah Joseph by personnel at the temporary evacuation centre (PPS).
From there, Layang took over, ensuring she reached school safely.
Thanks to him, both students will be able to sit for the SPM Biology paper tomorrow (Feb 3).
To him, ensuring that his students made it to school – especially for an exam that could shape their futures – was his responsibility and top priority.
“The future of my students means everything. That’s why, No matter the challenges they face, we will always find a way to help them,” he said.
Layang’s extraordinary efforts have been widely praised, reflecting the true spirit of an educator – one who not only teaches but also sacrifices to ensure that his students receive the best possible education, even in the face of adversity.
