Stepping Out of the Comfort Zone

By Esther Tse

 

The two most asked questions in 2020 are: How long do you think this pandemic will continue, and when will it end?

For the past weeks, Penang was proud to accomplish 100+days without a case; however, a first case appeared in the mainland, and since then, cases have slowly risen. As for Malaysia, the rising cases led to an emergency announcement. Three days ago, the prime minister announced that the Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO), which was initially to end August 31, had been extended to December 31st. Under the RMCO movement, interstate travel is allowed; however, foreigners, especially in countries with high COVID-19 cases, are not permitted to enter Malaysia. Though the renewed RMCO had some approvals, some may differ and believe this enforcement is unnecessary. 

Thankfully, Dalat International School is still open with strict restrictions, and the STEP program continues to operate for overseas students. 

The good news is that the dorm students returning from Korea arrived safely back to Penang and are for now in quarantine. Once in a while, they might be poking their heads out of their balcony and play hide-and-seek with you. At least they will appreciate a kind wave or welcoming shout from you. Furthermore, the more good news is that sports and co-curricular activities are allowed to resume in schools from September 1st onward; however, there are strict SOPs that we need to follow. Hopefully, the full detailed SOP will be reported today, September 1. 

As for the overseas students who are still stranded, the STEP program has immensely helped them. STEP students have to overcome the odds of online including assignments and even time zones. Thus, teachers meticulously worked day and night, finding creative ways to include overseas students for their class.

Alix Stuart (12), a STEP student who is right now in America, said, "I am so thankful for the STEP program, to be able to continue going to Dalat. It has been confusing, but my teachers have been super helpful."

Either through Zoom Calls or Microsoft Teams, teachers have shown compassion and dedication every day. Additionally, students have sought to ease the teacher's workload by individually contacting them. As online working is time-consuming and tiring, the Dalat community has tremendously shown its efforts and diligence to involve everyone at this uncertain time.

"I miss being there in person! Don't take it for granted, enjoy it even with the mask and social distancing," remarks Stuart (12).

As Stuart presents genuine insight, Dalat students should utilize this opportunity wisely and enjoy the valuable moments in school. Although the STEP students are overseas, they are pushing their efforts to complete every assignment and to aim for an enjoyable year. As a Dalat community, we should strive to keep our school open, even though the SOPs' restrictions are easily forgettable. Importantly, we should enjoy the moments we have of each other in school.