Ignite Studio: Empowering Student Creativity and Journalism Talent at SK Gual To’Deh School

Ignite Studio is the official name selected by the headmaster of SK Gual To’Deh, Mr Bakri Bin Hj Md Nor, for the newly established TV PSS studio under the School Resource Center. The name was chosen after an extensive brainstorming process in which nearly 25 proposed names were carefully evaluated. With the support of digital consultation tools such as ChatGPT, “Ignite Studio” was ultimately selected due to its strong symbolic meaning and motivational value. The word “ignite” represents the act of sparking creativity, enthusiasm, and innovative thinking among students, in line with the school’s aspiration to cultivate future-ready learners.

The Ignite Studio, SK Gual To'Deh

The establishment of Ignite Studio marks a significant milestone in strengthening digital education and student-centered learning at SK Gual To’Deh School. The studio functions as a dedicated space for video recording, broadcasting activities, digital storytelling, and multimedia production related to school programmes. Through this platform, students gain valuable exposure to real-world media production processes, including scripting, filming, editing, and presentation techniques. These learning experiences directly contribute to the development of essential 21st-century competencies such as communication skills, teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and creative thinking.

One of the most impactful contributions of Ignite Studio is its role in uncovering and nurturing students’ talents in journalism and media communication. By participating in school news production, interview sessions, documentary projects, and educational broadcasts, students acquire practical journalism skills that enhance their confidence and professional awareness. Journalism-based activities in the studio encourage students to practise ethical reporting, verify information accuracy, develop storytelling techniques, and improve public speaking abilities. This exposure strengthens students’ media literacy and promotes responsible digital citizenship, which are crucial in today’s information-rich society.

The coordination and daily management of Ignite Studio are led by ประเสริฐ รัตนวงศ์, who plays a vital role in supervising studio operations, organizing production schedules, and guiding student teams during content creation. Under this leadership, Ignite Studio has evolved into more than just a technical facility. It has become a creative learning hub where students are encouraged to explore new ideas, experiment with multimedia tools, and express their perspectives in meaningful and constructive ways.

Furthermore, the presence of Ignite Studio supports the school’s broader educational goals by integrating technology into both curricular and co-curricular activities. Teachers can utilize the studio to produce instructional videos, digital teaching resources, and school announcements, while students benefit from project-based learning approaches that promote active engagement and independent learning.

In conclusion, Ignite Studio serves as a transformative educational platform that empowers students to discover their potential in journalism and digital media. By igniting creativity and fostering practical skills, the studio plays a significant role in shaping confident, skilled, and media-literate students who are prepared to meet future challenges in the digital era.​

A Joyful First Day of School at SK Gual To’Deh: Building a Love for English Learning

SK GUAL TO'DEH - The first day of the school session at SK Gual To’Deh began with a positive atmosphere filled with excitement, curiosity, and hope. From the early morning, the school compound was lively with the laughter of pupils, warm greetings among teachers, and the enthusiastic presence of parents who accompanied their children. As a teacher, stepping into the classroom on the first day is always meaningful, and this year was no exception. Under my new name, Sir ประเสริฐ รัตนวงศ์, I was honored to begin another chapter of teaching with a group of energetic and motivated learners.

Sir ประเสริฐ รัตนวงศ์ conducts an interactive English class where pupils actively participate, communicate confidently, collaborate in groups, enjoy fun activities, and develop language skills in a supportive, engaging, and positive learning environment.

One of the most encouraging aspects of the day was the conducive and engaging learning environment. The classroom was well-organized, decorated with colorful learning materials, and arranged to support interaction and collaboration. Such an environment plays a crucial role in promoting students’ emotional comfort and academic engagement. When pupils feel safe and supported, they are more willing to participate actively and express their ideas without fear. This was clearly reflected in the pupils’ willingness to answer questions, volunteer for activities, and communicate with their peers in English.

The English lesson on the first day focused on simple introductions, greetings, and classroom expressions. Although some pupils were initially shy, their confidence gradually increased through interactive activities such as games, role-play, and group discussions. Many pupils expressed their enjoyment openly, stating that learning English was fun and exciting. Their smiles and active participation demonstrated that language learning does not have to be stressful; instead, it can be a joyful and meaningful experience when delivered using creative and student-centered approaches.

Moreover, the pupils’ positive response highlighted the importance of teacher enthusiasm and instructional strategies. By using encouraging words, clear instructions, and supportive feedback, I aimed to create a learning atmosphere that values effort rather than perfection. This approach helped pupils feel more comfortable making mistakes, which is an essential part of language acquisition. As Sir ประเสริฐ รัตนวงศ์, I believe that a teacher’s role is not only to deliver content but also to inspire confidence and curiosity in learners.

Another significant observation from the first day was the strong sense of community within the school. Teachers worked collaboratively to ensure that the transition into the new academic year was smooth and well-coordinated. School administrators provided clear guidance and support, while parents showed cooperation and trust in the school’s efforts. This collective commitment contributes greatly to the overall success of teaching and learning activities.

In conclusion, the first day of school at SK Gual To’Deh was a memorable and fulfilling experience. The pupils’ excitement, the supportive school environment, and the positive learning atmosphere created a strong foundation for the academic year ahead. Seeing pupils enjoy learning English and actively participate in class reminded me of the true purpose of teaching—to nurture knowledge, character, and confidence. With continuous effort, creativity, and dedication, I am confident that SK Gual To’Deh will continue to grow as a place where meaningful learning takes place and where pupils are inspired to achieve their full potential.

A Holistic Orientation Programme for the First Week of Schooling at SK Gual To’Deh 2026

SK GUAL TO'DEH - The first week of schooling plays a critical role in shaping pupils’ attitudes, emotional readiness, and overall adjustment to the school environment. At SK Gual To’Deh, the first week of the 2026 academic session, held from 11 to 15 January, was carefully structured through a comprehensive orientation programme designed to support pupils’ social, emotional, physical, and moral development. During this period, formal classroom teaching was deliberately postponed to allow pupils to participate fully in school-organised activities that emphasised transition, engagement, and holistic growth

Progam Minggu 1, 2026.

The programme commenced on Sunday, 11 January 2026, with the theme “Sapaan Mesra” for Level 1 pupils (Years 1–3) and “Aspirasi dan Matlamat” for Level 2 pupils (Years 4–6). For younger pupils, activities such as the welcoming assembly, self-introduction session “Who Am I?”, guided school tours, and lessons on school etiquette were implemented to familiarise them with the school environment and routines. These activities were particularly important for Year 1 pupils who were undergoing a significant transition into formal schooling. Meanwhile, Level 2 pupils participated in vision board activities, group dynamics sessions, and positive discipline briefings, which encouraged goal-setting, self-reflection, and responsible behaviour. The structured approach ensured that pupils at different developmental stages received age-appropriate support and guidance

On Monday, 12 January, the focus shifted towards physical activation, creativity, and numeracy reinforcement. Both levels participated in assemblies featuring the singing of three national and school-related songs, followed by aerobics sessions aimed at promoting physical well-being. Level 1 pupils engaged in poster colouring under the theme “Sekolahku Syurgaku” and school orientation tours, while Level 2 pupils took part in poster drawing activities. Additionally, the “Superhero Matematik – Buku Sifir” activity was conducted for both levels to strengthen basic mathematical skills in a fun and engaging manner. These activities demonstrated an integrated approach that balanced cognitive stimulation with physical and creative expression

The programme continued on Tuesday, 13 January, with a strong emphasis on collaboration, language development, and physical coordination. After the morning assembly and aerobics, pupils from both levels participated in station-based traditional games organised by the Physical Education panel. Language-based activities were differentiated according to pupils’ levels: Level 1 pupils engaged in “Lipat Jadi Hebat”, while Level 2 pupils participated in “Arkitek Perkataan”, both organised by the Malay and English Language panels. These activities supported the development of fine motor skills, creativity, and early literacy while fostering teamwork and communication among pupils

On Wednesday, 14 January, experiential learning was highlighted through the “Fun Walk – Kembara Flora dan Fauna”, involving all teachers and pupils. This outdoor exploration allowed pupils to connect with their natural surroundings while promoting physical activity and environmental awareness. The session “Tak Kenal Maka Tak Cinta”, organised by the History and Design & Technology panels, further enhanced pupils’ appreciation of their school community and heritage. The integration of outdoor learning and values-based education reflected the school’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals

The programme concluded on Thursday, 15 January, with activities that focused on spiritual development, reflection, and community building. Pupils participated in Solat Hajat and Yasin recitation, followed by a talk on Isra’ and Mi’raj organised by the Islamic Education and Arabic panels. The week ended with prize-giving ceremonies and classroom beautification activities through class-based gotong-royong sessions. These activities reinforced moral values, gratitude, and a sense of ownership towards the learning environment

In conclusion, the first week orientation programme at SK Gual To’Deh in 2026 was systematically planned and successfully implemented. The programme achieved its objectives by ensuring that all pupils participated actively and adapted well to the school environment. By prioritising holistic development over immediate academic instruction, the school laid a strong foundation for pupils’ readiness to learn, socialise, and thrive throughout the academic year.

“Welcoming the New School Year: The Significance of First-Day Practices in Building a Positive School Culture”

RANTAU PANJANG - ​The first day of school at SK Gual To’Deh, Rantau Panjang, Kelantan marks more than the resumption of academic routines; it represents a meaningful annual tradition that reinforces the school’s values, culture, and sense of community. As early as 6.45 a.m., pupils arrive at the school compound, greeted warmly at the gate by the headmaster, Mr. Bakri Bin Hj. Nor, the Senior Assistant for Student Affairs (PK HEM), Madam Nurullhuda Bt. Zakaria, and several dedicated teachers. Their presence at the school gate is a symbolic and practical practice that carries significant educational, emotional, and social importance.

The headmaster’s act of welcoming a pupil at the school gate reflects a meaningful and compassionate leadership practice. This simple gesture demonstrates that the school values each pupil as an individual, not merely as a learner within the system. By personally greeting pupils, the headmaster helps create a warm and inclusive environment that reduces anxiety, especially at the beginning of the school day.

Firstly, welcoming pupils at the school gate demonstrates strong and visible leadership. When school leaders position themselves at the forefront on the first day, they send a clear message that students are valued and that the school prioritizes student welfare. This act humanizes school authority figures, reducing perceived distance between administrators and pupils. For new pupils especially, seeing the headmaster and teachers smiling and offering greetings helps to ease anxiety and fosters a sense of safety and belonging from the very beginning of the school year.

Secondly, this practice nurtures a positive school climate. The early morning welcome sets the emotional tone for the day and, by extension, the year ahead. Pupils who are greeted personally are more likely to feel motivated, respected, and excited to learn. Research on school climate consistently shows that positive initial interactions between students and teachers contribute to better engagement, improved behavior, and stronger attendance patterns. The excitement visible on the faces of both pupils and teachers reflects a shared optimism to begin a new chapter in 2026 with renewed commitment and enthusiasm.

In addition, the practice strengthens relationships between teachers and pupils. Education is not solely about curriculum delivery; it is fundamentally relational. Simple gestures such as greeting pupils by name, offering encouragement, or acknowledging their return after the holidays help build trust and rapport. These relationships form the foundation for effective teaching and learning throughout the year, as pupils are more receptive to guidance from teachers who demonstrate care and approachability.

Furthermore, the annual welcoming ritual reinforces discipline and punctuality. By arriving early and being present at the gate, teachers model punctual behavior, subtly communicating expectations to pupils. The structured yet welcoming environment encourages students to develop good habits, such as arriving on time and beginning the day in an orderly manner.

Finally, this practice symbolizes continuity and renewal. Each year, it reminds the school community of its shared mission to educate, nurture, and inspire. Standing at the gate together, school leaders and teachers affirm their collective responsibility and readiness to face new challenges. For pupils, the moment becomes a memorable start that instills confidence and hope, making the first day not just a return to school, but the beginning of a meaningful educational journey.

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The Annual Sports Championship of SK Gual To'Deh 2025

SK GUAL TODEH - The Annual Sports Championship of Sekolah Kebangsaan Gual To’Deh, held from 9 to 10 December 2025, marked a proud achievement for the entire school community and surrounding residents. The event was organised not only to promote physical fitness among pupils but also to cultivate unity, cooperation and leadership through active involvement in co-curricular activities. The opening ceremony was officiated by the Headmaster of SK Gual To’Deh, Encik Bakri bin Hj. Md Nor, who highlighted the importance of sports as a medium for developing character and holistic student growth.

A photograph of the Green House champions proudly celebrating their victory at the 2025 Annual Sports Championship, showcasing their team unity, vibrant spirit and dedication, with members holding their banner high after an outstanding and well-deserved achievement.

The parade of sports houses, which began at 8.30 a.m., stood out as one of the most captivating moments of the event. The four houses—Red, Blue, Green and Yellow—showcased creative displays through sports attire designed according to their respective themes and colours. This presentation reflected the pupils’ abilities in planning, organisation and teamwork, in line with 21st-century educational goals that emphasise soft skills such as leadership, communication and creativity.

Throughout the two-day championship, various sports and athletic events were contested, including running events, shot put, long jump and several light competitions tailored to pupils’ differing physical abilities. This year’s championship also introduced a new event, ‘bidas’, a game that has gained popularity among the Kelantanese community. The participation of local villagers added to the festive atmosphere while strengthening school–community relations, aligning with community-based education approaches that emphasise collaboration between schools and society.

The competition between the sports houses was carried out in the spirit of true sportsmanship. Although there was no tug-of-war event in this year’s edition, the championship remained lively with loud cheers, the determined effort of young athletes, and the continuous support provided by teacher-coaches. The event also offered valuable educational lessons, including discipline, mental resilience and the ability to handle both victory and defeat with grace.

The 2025 Annual Sports Championship of SK Gual To’Deh concluded with the Green House emerging as the overall champion. This victory reflects the high level of commitment demonstrated by its members through consistent training and preparation throughout the year. Congratulations and well done to the Green House for this outstanding achievement, which will undoubtedly inspire other houses to improve their performance in future championships.

Overall, the championship not only showcased athletic excellence but also strengthened social bonds between the school community and local residents. The 2025 edition stands as one of the most meaningful in the school’s history, with well-organised activities and active participation contributing to SK Gual To’Deh’s continued excellence in organising school-level sports events.

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A Reflection of Commitment and Togetherness: SK Gual To’Deh Year-End Appreciation Gala 2025

WAKAF BHARU -  The 2025 Year-End Dinner of Sekolah Kebangsaan Gual To’Deh represented a significant manifestation of organizational culture in strengthening values of togetherness, appreciation, and collective reflection among school staff after completing an academic year marked by varied challenges and achievements. The event was held on 6 November 2025 at New Cottage Restaurant, Wakaf Bharu, Kelantan, and commenced at 12.30 p.m., with the presence of nearly all teachers and staff members.

A memorable group photo of the SK Gual To’Deh community at the 2025 Year-End Dinner, celebrating unity, dedication, and shared achievements after a year of challenges, collaboration, gratitude, and renewed commitment among teachers and staff.

Conceptually, a year-end dinner is not merely a social gathering; rather, it functions as a symbolic platform for closing one phase of an organizational journey. In the context of SK Gual To’Deh, the event reflected the school’s capacity to navigate the “bittersweet” experiences encountered throughout the year, including limitations in resources, increasing professional demands on teachers, commitment to holistic student development, and the need to sustain a harmonious working environment. The collective attendance of the school community demonstrated a high level of organizational commitment, which remains a vital element in determining school effectiveness.

The programme began with a welcoming address by the Chairman of the Teachers’ and Staff Association (BIGS), Muhammad Nazri bin Ghazali. His speech emphasized the importance of unity and collaborative spirit in sustaining the school’s progress and excellence. From an academic perspective, this message aligns with findings in educational management research, which highlight that instructional leadership and social support within schools contribute positively to teachers’ job satisfaction and professional motivation. The address implicitly acknowledged the collective contributions of all SK Gual To’Deh staff in advancing the school’s educational agenda throughout the year.

This was followed by a speech from the Headmaster of SK Gual To’Deh, Bakri bin Md Nor, which served as the reflective highlight of the event. He expressed his happiness and gratitude for the strong attendance, illustrating the strength of an inclusive and supportive school culture. His speech revisited the journey of the past year, which involved pedagogical challenges, the need to adapt to policy changes, and multiple achievements attained through shared effort and perseverance. Within the framework of the learning organization theory, such reflective practices are essential in facilitating continuous improvement and more effective strategic planning for the future.

The cake-cutting ceremony that followed symbolized both the closure of the year’s collective efforts and the renewal of shared hopes for the coming year. This activity went beyond celebration, functioning as an organizational ritual that strengthened interpersonal relationships among staff members. The lucky draw session further enhanced the joyful atmosphere, and the moment when Khun Matt won the grand prize became a memorable highlight that added to the warmth of the occasion. From the perspective of workplace well-being, elements of appreciation and enjoyment such as these are associated with reduced work-related stress and enhanced emotional well-being among teachers.

My attendance at the event together with my spouse also underscored the supportive role of family in the teaching profession. In sum, the 2025 Year-End Dinner of SK Gual To’Deh was not only a celebration marking the end of a year filled with both challenges and successes, but also a meaningful occasion that reinforced solidarity, resilience, and readiness among the school community to move forward into the coming year with renewed commitment, positive morale, and strengthened professional dedication.

Empowering Students with 21st-Century Skills Through the TV PSS Media Hub

SK GUAL TO'DEH - A TV room for the School Resource Centre (PSS) at SK Gual To’Deh is being developed beside the existing room as part of a strategic initiative aligned with the Ministry of Education Malaysia’s (MOE) commitment to strengthening digital literacy and 21st-century competencies among pupils. The 30 x 10-foot room, equipped with 30 laptops, is designed not merely as a media space but as a comprehensive technology learning hub. Its establishment supports MOE’s data-driven and digital-integration programmes such as PSS Digitalisation, Digital Technology Integration in Teaching and Learning, and the Educational Big Data Collaboration Initiative.

The pupils actively assist in managing the TV PSS room by helping to carry and arrange tables and chairs. Their cooperation ensures the room is organized efficiently, fostering teamwork and responsibility among the students.

Through this TV PSS room, pupils who recently completed the TV PSS workshop can continue learning in a more structured manner. They are exposed to essential and advanced digital competencies, including the use of smartphones and laptops for media production. Key skills emphasised in the programme include video recording techniques, capturing high-quality photographs, and applying basic editing software to produce suitable media content. These learning opportunities align with current research findings indicating that structured digital-competency training significantly enhances learners’ technological understanding and supports higher-order thinking skills.

A total of 26 laptops were donated to SK Gual To’Deh by the Rantau Panjang Teacher Activity Centre.

Beyond technical development, the programme also trains pupils to serve as “school reporters.” Beginning next year, they will be responsible for documenting and reporting on school activities and events. This experience not only builds self-confidence but also strengthens communication, critical thinking, and creativity. International research on media literacy underscores that involving pupils in school-based journalism expands their communicative competence and deepens their understanding of information ethics—an essential component of digital-safety principles promoted by MOE.

The pupils’ media products will be uploaded to the school’s official social media platforms, including Facebook, YouTube and TikTok. This practice not only increases the visibility of school programmes but also cultivates a culture of evidence-based information sharing. The initiative reinforces digital-reporting practices encouraged through MOE’s school data-digitalisation agenda. Producing digital content enables the school to systematically collect data on student performance, interests and skill development, contributing to more data-informed educational planning.

In essence, the establishment of the TV PSS room represents a holistic effort that integrates technological needs, pupil talent development and the national digital-education transformation agenda. With proper facilities and structured guidance, this room is expected to become an innovative learning centre that strengthens the school’s transition towards a mature, data-driven and competitive digital culture.

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PLC Workshop Report: Integrating Canva AI and One-Page Report (OPR) for Professional Growth

​PLC Workshop Report: Integrating Canva AI and One-Page Report (OPR) for Professional Growth

Date: December 2, 2025
Venue: Meeting Room, SK Gual To’Deh

The Professional Learning Community (PLC) Workshop held on December 2, 2025, at the Meeting Room of SK Gual To’Deh gathered a committed group of teachers eager to strengthen their digital competence and instructional innovation. The workshop focused on two key elements: Canva AI and the One-Page Report (OPR) template, both of which support teachers in enhancing productivity, creativity, and reflective professional practice.

The workshop began with an introduction to AI-powered educational tools, emphasizing the increasing relevance of artificial intelligence in modern teaching. Participants were guided through the features of Canva AI, which offers automated design suggestions, instant layout generation, content refinement, and a wide range of templates tailored for educational use. These tools demonstrated how AI can streamline lesson preparation, reduce time spent on design work, and improve the quality of classroom materials.

Teachers engaged in hands-on exploration of Canva AI in their PLC groups. Each group created digital learning materials such as infographics, lesson slides, assessment visuals, and display posters. The intuitive design functions of Canva AI enabled teachers of all skill levels to produce professional and visually engaging resources, reinforcing the platform’s usefulness in promoting multimodal teaching and active student engagement.

A significant component of the workshop was the introduction of the One-Page Report (OPR), a concise reporting format designed to help teachers document PLC activities more systematically and efficiently. The OPR provides a structured yet flexible approach to capturing key reflections, decisions, challenges, and outcomes within a single page. Participants learned how to integrate Canva AI with OPR documentation to produce clear, coherent, and visually appealing reports. This integration not only supports administrative efficiency but also strengthens transparency and collaboration within the PLC.

During the reflective discussion, teachers highlighted the value of OPR in improving the quality of PLC documentation and ensuring consistency across teams. Many participants also appreciated how Canva AI made the OPR more engaging and easier to interpret, fostering better communication among stakeholders.

The workshop concluded with a collective commitment to continue refining the use of Canva AI and OPR in future PLC cycles. Overall, the session contributed meaningfully to professional growth by enhancing teachers’ proficiency with digital tools, strengthening reflective practice, and reinforcing the collaborative culture at SK Gual To’Deh.

Receding Floodwaters on 30 November 2025 and Regional Impacts Near the Thailand–Malaysia Border

RANTAU PANJANG - On 30 November 2025, floodwaters in the villages surrounding SK Gual To’Deh and several areas in northern Kelantan began to show clear signs of receding. After several days of continuous monitoring and early evacuation, residents finally witnessed a gradual return to normalcy. The improved conditions were most evident in Rantau Panjang town, where the streets had completely dried, allowing businesses to reopen and residents to resume daily activities. Just days earlier, the traffic light junction near the Petronas station had become a temporary gathering point where people, especially children, playfully interacted with the shallow floodwaters. With the water fully gone, the scene shifted back to its usual traffic flow and commercial movement.

A house in Kg Lubok Gong stands surrounded by floodwater near the Malaysia–Thailand border. The rising water reflects the heavy monsoon rainfall affecting the region. Although the structure remains intact, the scene highlights the community’s vulnerability and the slow recession of floods in areas close to Sungai Kolok.

Despite the overall improvement on the Malaysian side, several areas closer to the Thailand–Malaysia border, particularly those located near Sungai Kolok, continued to experience lingering floodwater. The slower rate of recession there was expected, given the geographical proximity to the river and the influence of upstream water flow from southern Thailand. Communities in these border regions remained cautious, recognising that although the water was decreasing, the surrounding soil was still saturated, and river levels remained higher than usual.

In southern Thailand, the flood situation also began to ease, particularly in Hatyai, one of the hardest-hit cities during the peak of the monsoon event. Over the previous week, heavy rainfall had overwhelmed drainage systems, caused widespread inundation, and disrupted mobility across several districts. As water levels gradually receded, Thai authorities began intensive efforts to assess the extent of the damage. Early estimates from the Thai government indicated losses amounting to several billion baht, reflecting damage to infrastructure, agricultural lands, homes, and commercial properties. The scale of destruction underscored the severity of the monsoon season and the vulnerability of densely populated urban areas in southern Thailand.

For communities along the Sungai Kolok border, the situation in Thailand played a significant role in shaping local water conditions. Hydrological flow from the upstream Thai districts often influences river levels on the Malaysian side, contributing to the slower recession observed in nearby villages. Nevertheless, local authorities in Kelantan remained optimistic, noting that the continued decline in rainfall and the stabilising river flow pointed toward a steady recovery.

By the afternoon of 30 November, many families who had temporarily taken shelter at SK Gual To’Deh began preparing to return home. Tents were dismantled, personal belongings were packed, and classrooms used as temporary shelters were gradually cleaned and restored. Community volunteers, teachers, and local officials worked together to ensure the transition was smooth and safe, especially for families whose homes required minor cleaning and repairs.

The events of late November highlighted both the challenges and resilience of communities living in flood-prone regions. Although the monsoon season brought disruption, the coordinated response, early evacuation strategies, and strong community cooperation played a crucial role in reducing risk and ensuring safety. As both Malaysia and Thailand entered the recovery phase, attention shifted toward rebuilding, strengthening preparedness, and improving long-term flood mitigation in anticipation of future monsoon cycles.

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Community Evacuations and Tent Setup at SK Gual To’Deh on 27 November 2025

SK GUAL TO'DEH - On 27 November 2025, the situation in the flood-affected villages surrounding SK Gual To’Deh continued to evolve as rising water levels prompted more families to seek shelter at the school. Although the floodwaters were increasing gradually, residents were advised to relocate early to avoid the possibility of being stranded should the rain intensify. By mid-morning, streams of villagers from Kg Gual To’Deh, Kg Tersang, Kg Lachang, and nearby settlements began arriving at the school compound with their essential belongings.

The picture shows an evacuation tent at SK Gual To’Deh, neatly set up with a patterned mat, pillows, and bags placed inside. The bright orange structure marked “Stay Safe” provides a clean, organised temporary space for families seeking shelter during the rising flood situation.

To accommodate the growing number of evacuees, families began setting up temporary tents in designated areas within the school grounds. The shaded space beneath the computer laboratory became one of the main sites for tent placement, providing a sheltered and relatively dry area for families to rest and organise their living space. The school hall also served as an important zone for evacuees, offering additional room for tent setups and allowing larger families to stay together comfortably. Teachers, community volunteers, and local authorities worked collectively to guide families to appropriate locations and ensure the pathways remained clear for movement and emergency access.

The atmosphere at the school reflected both cooperation and resilience. While the flood conditions outside were slowly worsening, families at the evacuation centre demonstrated strong community spirit, assisting one another in arranging tents, preparing bedding, and distributing basic supplies. Children gathered in small groups under supervision, while elders rested in designated corners, grateful for the sheltered environment despite the uncertainties ahead. The school’s leadership ensured that safety procedures were maintained, especially in areas where electrical equipment was present, such as the vicinity of the computer laboratory.

Reports from southern Thailand added to local concerns, as the neighbouring regions were experiencing severe flooding far more intense than that on the Malaysian side. News of rapidly rising rivers, disrupted transport routes, and mass evacuations across the border heightened awareness among the villagers about the unpredictable nature of monsoon-related disasters. Although the water level in the villages near SK Gual To’Deh had not yet reached dangerous heights, the community remained alert, mindful of how quickly conditions could change.

By evening, the school grounds had transformed into a well-organised temporary settlement. The coordinated efforts of villagers, teachers, and relief personnel created a sense of stability amid the ongoing uncertainty. As the monsoon season continued, the events of 27 November reinforced the importance of preparedness, early evacuation, and community solidarity in navigating the challenges brought by recurring seasonal floods.

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Rising Floodwaters on 27 November 2025 and Increasing Evacuations to SK Gual To’Deh

KG GUAL TO'DEH - Flood conditions intensified on 27 November 2025 in the rural areas surrounding SK Gual To’Deh, prompting more villagers to evacuate to the school, which continued to serve as the main temporary relief centre. Compared to the previous day, water levels rose steadily, particularly in low-lying zones such as Kg Gual To’Deh, Kg Tersang, and several neighbouring settlements near the Sungai Kolok border. Although the increase in water level was noticeable, the rise remained gradual, giving residents sufficient time to organise their belongings, safeguard essential items, and relocate in an orderly manner.

I am standing in the middle of the road facing rising floodwater. With both hands raised, you appear to be observing the situation as the water gradually advances. Reflections of trees, houses, and parked motorcycles on the flooded surface highlight the calm yet tense atmosphere.

By midday, additional families began moving into the hall and classrooms designated for emergency shelter at SK Gual To’Deh. Teachers, community leaders, and local authorities worked together to coordinate the placement of evacuees, ensuring that each family received adequate space, basic necessities, and access to clean water. The calm and structured nature of the relocation process reflected the community’s familiarity with flood management, shaped by years of recurring monsoon events in the region.

Despite the relatively manageable conditions on the Malaysian side, residents remained cautious due to the worsening situation across the border in southern Thailand. Reports from Hatyai, Sungai Kolok, and several districts in Narathiwat indicated severe flooding that surpassed the intensity of previous monsoon seasons. Rapid river overflow, blocked drainage systems, and prolonged heavy rainfall contributed to large-scale displacement in those areas, raising concerns that similar conditions could develop in northern Kelantan if rainfall persisted.

Meteorological observations attributed the ongoing flooding to intensified Northeast Monsoon activity, which typically brings heavy, continuous rainfall from late November through the early months of the following year. In recent seasons, climate variability has increased the frequency of extreme rainfall events, often causing rivers to swell quickly and flood-prone areas to experience early flooding. For communities near major river systems like Sungai Kolok, the risk is further compounded by rainfall patterns occurring in upstream regions of Thailand, where water flow can directly influence downstream levels on the Malaysian side.

On 27 November, villagers monitoring the riverbanks observed a gradual but persistent rise in the water level. Although the flow remained slower compared to the major floods in Thailand, the trend signalled that precautionary measures were necessary. Emergency response teams remained on standby, and updates on weather conditions were communicated frequently to ensure residents stayed informed. The sense of vigilance was evident, yet the atmosphere within the evacuation centre remained calm as families settled in, children received support from teachers, and volunteers distributed meals and essential supplies.

As the monsoon season continued, the community’s resilience and preparedness played a crucial role in managing the unfolding situation. While the flooding had not reached critical levels, the widespread damage reported in southern Thailand served as a stark reminder of the monsoon’s unpredictability. The events of 27 November reinforced the importance of sustained monitoring, community cooperation, and proactive planning as the region navigated the challenges posed by the annual monsoon cycle.

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Article: Flooding Begins on 26 November 2025 in Communities Surrounding the School Area

KG GUAL TO'DEH - Flooding re-emerged on 26 November 2025 in several rural communities surrounding the local school, particularly in Kg Tersang, Kg Lachang, and villages near the Sungai Kolok border. These areas have long been known as flood-prone zones due to their geographical proximity to major river systems and their low-lying terrain. Although this initial wave of flooding was relatively moderate, the situation drew considerable attention from residents and authorities because of the severe floods simultaneously affecting southern Thailand, especially the Hatyai region.

A house at Kg Gual To'Deh, stands surrounded by rising floodwater, reflecting the early impact of the monsoon season. Though the water remains at a moderate level, it signals potential danger if heavy rain continues. The image highlights the community’s vulnerability and the need for constant monitoring during unpredictable weather conditions.

On the first day of the incident, six families living within a palm oil plantation adjacent to the school compound were evacuated as a precautionary measure. They were relocated to the school, which has been designated as a temporary relief centre during monsoon seasons. Observers noted that although water levels did rise, they did so at a slower rate compared to past major flood events. Unlike the rapid and destructive flooding that overwhelmed parts of southern Thailand, the floodwaters in these Malaysian villages remained manageable, allowing emergency teams to respond effectively.

The flood event is closely connected to the broader monsoon patterns affecting Southeast Asia during this season. The Northeast Monsoon, typically active from November to March, brings heavy rainfall to the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, southern Thailand, and parts of Indonesia and the Philippines. Climatological studies in recent years highlight an increase in rainfall intensity during monsoon periods, influenced by regional climate variability and global temperature trends. These changes have resulted in more frequent and unpredictable flood episodes, even in areas with long-established water management systems.

In Kg Tersang and Kg Lachang, seasonal flooding has become an anticipated challenge, but the community’s preparedness has improved over the years. Local authorities have strengthened communication networks, ensuring residents receive early warnings and evacuation instructions. The prompt relocation of the six affected families reflects the community’s heightened awareness and readiness, shaped by repeated exposure to monsoon-related disasters.

Despite the moderate nature of this first wave of flooding, residents remained vigilant. News of devastating floods in neighbouring Thailand served as a stark reminder of the monsoon’s potential severity. Hydrological experts warn that early monsoon floods often signal the possibility of stronger subsequent waves, especially when cumulative rainfall saturates the soil and raises river levels. In this regard, community leaders emphasized continuous monitoring of river conditions along Sungai Kolok, where cross-border rainfall patterns can significantly influence the water flow.

As the monsoon season progresses, the situation in these villages continues to be monitored closely. While the initial flooding did not cause substantial damage, it reinforced the importance of preparedness in a region where natural cycles and changing climatic conditions intersect. The resilience shown by the affected communities reflects their long-standing experience, collective coordination, and adaptive strategies in facing the annual monsoon challenges.

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