KAPIT: The Malaysia Digital Tour (JMD) @ Kapit was officially launched on Friday (Feb 21) by Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong at Kapit Town Square.
Led by the Ministry of Digital and the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), the initiative aims to accelerate digital adoption and drive economic growth, aligning with Malaysia Madani’s vision to increase the digital economy’s GDP contribution to 25.5% by 2025.
JMD @ Kapit focuses on equipping Malaysians, particularly B40 groups, MSMEs, and youth, with digital skills to address economic challenges. The programme also highlights the success of last year’s Saya Digital Tour which helped over 7,469 Sarawakians leverage digital marketing for income generation.
“Digitalisation is no longer an option but a necessity. Individuals and businesses must embrace technology to remain competitive and resilient in today’s economy,” Ugak said.
“Through this programme, we are bringing knowledge, tools, and opportunities directly to the people, ensuring that no one is left behind in Malaysia’s digital revolution.”
A key highlight of the initiative is the Digital AgTech programme, which integrates artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and Big Data to modernise agriculture. Over 600 systems have been deployed nationwide, benefiting 30,000 agropreneurs. Sarawak, in particular, will receive five AI-powered aquaculture systems worth RM150,000 this year.
“Agriculture has long been associated with strenuous and unappealing work. However, with modern digital tools, the industry can become more productive and efficient, attracting younger generations to the field. We have already seen great success in Sarawak, where farmers who adopted digital solutions have significantly improved their yields and income,” Ugak stated on modernising agriculture.
Since 2015, MDEC’s eUsahawan initiative has trained 564,629 entrepreneurs, generating RM1.26 billion in sales. In Sarawak alone, 34,104 entrepreneurs have benefited, collectively earning over RM51.63 million. Meanwhile, the MyDigitalMaker initiative has nurtured over 2.5 million students in digital technology, preparing them for the digital future.
“The ability to use digital platforms effectively can transform small businesses and generate substantial income. We encourage Sarawakians to embrace digital skills and tap into the vast opportunities available in the digital economy,” Ugak added, highlighting digital entrepreneurship as a key driver of economic resilience.
“We are dedicated to ensuring that Malaysians, particularly those in rural areas, are not left behind. Programmes like JMD @ Kapit will cultivate a digitally literate, innovative, and competitive society,” he further said, with regard to the government’s commitment to digital transformation.
The event featured a variety of activities, including digital training, cybersecurity awareness sessions, and AI education. Other attractions included a Digital Fun Run and the Kapit’s Got Talent competition. Several agencies, including the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN), CyberSecurity Malaysia, and Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP), participated by offering services such as Jualan Rahmah and free health screenings.
JMD @ Kapit was supported by various ministries and agencies, including the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development (MYSED), the Ministry of Health Malaysia (KKM), and TikTok Malaysia.
Among the distinguished guests present were Datuk Liwan Lagang, Deputy Minister of Utility and Communication Sarawak; Nicholas Kudi Jantai, Baleh assemblyman; Kennedy Chukpai Ugon, Murum assemblyman; and Fabian Bigar, secretary-general of the Ministry of Digital.
