KUCHING, Nov 16: Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) has contributed 30 units of Samsung tablets to 30 students from SMK Lake, SMK Bau, and SMK Singai to assist them with technological advancement to equip young Sarawakians with the knowledge to partake in the digital economy.
According to a press release, SMA is delighted that the Sarawak government has entrusted it with assisting in the education of the people through the promotion of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects.
“As we are all aware, Sarawak is aspiring to become a developed State by 2030 through the implementation of the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which focuses on the digital economy.
“And today, it is with great pleasure that SMA is playing a small role in assisting the State government to build up our local community by donating 30 units of Samsung tablets to students, especially those from the B40 group.
“SMA is also committed to assist the communities in the rural areas. This has been part of our government’s commitment to achieve the PCDS 2030,” SMA stated in the press release.
It went on to say, “Indeed, SMA is glad to play this small part to reciprocate to the caring State Government under the leadership of Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.”
SMA is also committed to assisting the State government in achieving its vision by assisting students, particularly those from vulnerable communities, with online learning in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“It must be emphasised that the Covid-19 has affected different classes of society disproportionately, and as the world transitions into a more digitalised era, it is vital that those who are the most vulnerable in our societies are paid attention to and assisted accordingly.
“The pandemic has proven the importance of recognising the significance of being a digitalised economy.
“It is therefore critical for students in this digital era to have the proper resources to be connected,” it added.
Access to online learning has been a major concern for the government, particularly in remote areas of the country, which is why SMA has taken the small step to assist these 30 students so that they, too, will not be left behind in their pursuit of knowledge.
“This is indeed a small step to narrow the digital gap and to provide the students with the ability to adapt to and embrace digital transformation.
“SMA believes that everyone has the right to a high-quality education and is committed to assisting students in technological advancement in order to prepare young Sarawakians to partake in the digital economy.
Meanwhile, SMA general manager Ts Dr Zaidi Razak in the press release emphasised, “For the record, we at SMA have played an active role in supporting local communities across the State during the Covid-19 pandemic, including the education sector and remains focused on supporting the development of students by ensuring they have the right equipment and resources to ensure the continuity of their education.
“And finally, we are committed to assist our deserving students as they will be our future leaders, so that they will be well equipped with what is crucial to make Sarawak a digital powerhouse in the region.”
The handover ceremony was officiated by Abang Johari at the Dewan SK St Teresa Kampung Stenggang Bau here today. Also present at the event was Zaidi. — DayakDaily
