Notice has been submitted under Parliament Standing Order 18 seeking debate in the Dewan Rakyat on the hand-foot-mouth disease outbreak in Sarawak.

Chong Chieng Jen (DAP-Bandar Kuching) said in a statement that debate was warranted on the basis of "urgent public importance", since the disease is spreading.

"Up to Monday, there were 4,278 reported cases. Seven children are suspected to have died of the disease," he said.

Last week, the state government closed all kindergartens and nursery schools, followed by several primary schools.

"Schools will re-open next week. Parents are very concerned about the situation, and doubt the effectiveness of control measures to date by the state government," Chong said.

"If the disease is spreading while schools are closed, what will happen when the schools re-open?"

He said Parliament should seriously consider debating the matter.