BINTULU: The advancement of technology, particularly social media, is one of the challenges in shaping the character of today’s youth.
In stating this, Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat said the technological advancements have created a new culture in society from the early stages of childhood.
He added that social media technology such as Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, TikTok, and so on has greatly influenced the lifestyles of individuals, particularly young people.
“We cannot reject technological advancements since they will drive our life in the future.
“The question is how we adapt especially the family institution and also the programmes organised by the government to adapt to these existing programmes so that youths we expect to be future leaders would value the togetherness, unity, the spirit of respect and tolerance towards the communities in Sarawak given that the society in the state is different from the Malaysian peninsula,” he said.
He said this when representing Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah during the 2024 Sarawak National Youth Day celebration held at the Sri Kenyalang Hall, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) Campus Bintulu on Saturday (May 18).
Ripin said the formation of youth as leaders at any level should begin through relationships and interactions with society.
“Even though life scenarios are changing, technology remains essential in a variety of fields including business and education as well as being the fastest source of information,” he said.
However, he noted that technology also carries negative elements if not used properly.
“Youth especially those in public and private higher education institutions are urged to take the initiative to actively participate in community programme to ensure the development of people of high-quality,” he said.
