By Nancy Nais
SIBU, Oct 21: A library is an accelerator in helping the government reduce digital divide and differences, Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg asserted.
This he said, is the fact that reading will enable a person to gain knowledge because through reading, the minds of readers are triggered to analyse and be inspired to challenge themselves.
“Our future towards 2030 as a developed state is clear. But to reach that stage, we must have people who can think. We need to encourage our younger generation to gain as much knowledge as they can in order to compete not just within the state or country, but also internationally.
“With libraries serving as the door to the treasures of universal knowledge and information, our people will have the opportunity to improve their abilities as well as find out the latest developments.
“As the world changes and with the information technology era, we cannot deny nor run away from it. We must adapt. Overtime, old version libraries must change, adding digital technologies because it is part and parcel of development,” Abang Johari said at the official launch of Pustaka Negeri Sarawak Sibu this morning.
He disclosed that public libraries in Sarawak will undergo restructuring by having not only hard copy, but also digital books.
Meanwhile, Perpustakaan Desa Kampung Meludam, Betong won the Chief Minister’s Public Library Award.
Abang Johari presented the prizes of RM20,000, trophy and certificate to the winners, witnessed by Sarawak State Library chairman Tan Sri Hamid Bugo.
