BY SYAMIMI HUSNA
KUCHING: The literacy rate among adults in Malaysia has now reached 94 per cent, indicating progress in access to education.
However, Deputy Minister of Rural and Regional Development Datuk Rubiah Wang noted that statistics show around 30 per cent of students in rural areas still face difficulties in accessing quality education.
“The 2021 Human Development Report from the United Nations (UN) asserts that investment in education can improve the health, safety, and productivity of society.
“Therefore, it is our responsibility to create more inclusive educational opportunities, especially in less fortunate areas,” she said at the closing ceremony of the Sarawak Education Convention 2024 at UiTM, Kota Samarahan today.
The Samarahan Member of Parliament said the federal Ministry of Education expects that 80 per cent of teaching methods will shift to digital approaches by 2025.
In fact, she added, statistical reports show that internet usage among Malaysian students has risen to nearly 90 per cent, indicating they are more prepared to adopt new learning approaches.
“With technology such as artificial intelligence (AI) and online learning, we can expand educational access for students across the country.
“This is a crucial step to ensure that students from remote areas can also pursue knowledge more effectively.
“Through digital learning platforms, students can access various sources of knowledge, connect with teaching staff, and interact with their peers nationwide without geographical limitations.
“However, we must ensure that the digitisation of education is carried out wisely. Infrastructure like high-speed internet and access to electronic devices must be available for all students.
“We don’t want anyone left behind in this digital world due to a lack of resources,” she said.
Also present were the assistant rector of UiTM Sarawak Branch, Samarahan Campus Dr. Abdul Razak Abdul Kadir, and senior lecturer, Faculty of Management & Business, UiTM Selangor Branch, as well as the head of the Sarawak Education Convention Project (KPS) 2024, Dr. Mohamad Idham Md Razak.
