KOTA KINABALU: Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) are urged to play a more active role in guiding students to use the internet safely, prudently, and responsibly, in tandem with the rapid advancement of digital technology.
Sabah Minister of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Datuk James Ratib said that while digital technology advancements offer numerous benefits to the learning process, they simultaneously expose children to risks such as cyberbullying, online scams, misuse of personal information, and inappropriate content.
He stated that ensuring children’s safety in the digital space cannot be left solely to schools; instead, it requires close cooperation among parents, teachers, and PTAs.
“Children need to be not only tech-savvy but also capable of making wise judgments, exercising prudence when using the internet, and taking responsibility for their actions in the digital space,” he said in a statement today.
He added that parents must stay informed about their children’s online activities, including the applications used, the content accessed, and the individuals with whom they interact.
At the same time, James noted that teachers and PTAs need to help raise awareness regarding cybersecurity, including measures to protect personal information, identify online scams, and report any forms of harassment or cyberbullying.
He also emphasised the importance of digital literacy education so that students do not merely become technology users but are capable of utilising these tools in a mature, critical, and ethical manner.
James stated that the development of digital infrastructure in Sabah must be accompanied by efforts to strengthen public knowledge and awareness regarding safe internet usage, particularly among the younger generation.
He affirmed the state government’s commitment to continue collaborating with the Sabah State Education Department (JPNS), the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), and relevant strategic partners to expand internet safety and digital literacy education in schools. He hopes the convention will serve as a platform to strengthen collaborative networks among the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), schools, parents, and relevant agencies in protecting students from online threats.
“We want the children of Sabah to enjoy the benefits of technology while remaining protected and safe at the same time,” he said. – BERNAMA
