SIBU: Mastering tools and leveraging technology are the keys to improving efficiency and competitiveness.
This was highlighted at the Sarawak ICT Association (SICTA) 25th Anniversary Celebration here on Saturday night (Sept 20), where Dewan Rakyat Deputy Speaker, Alice Lau Kiong Yieng, stressed the importance of embracing technological change.
She cautioned that those who resist learning new tools risk being left behind.
“Some people worry that technological progress will replace humans with machines. But I wish to stress this: there are no people who are replaced – only people who do not know how to use tools.
“Therefore, we must actively embrace advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning.
“These not only enhance efficiency and competitiveness but also help us adapt to future challenges,” she said in her speech, delivered by her private secretary, Stanley Chew.
Lau, who is also Lanang Member of Parliament, pointed out that the rapid adoption of wireless networks, the Internet of Things (IoT), and 5G has already transformed lives, from social communication and smart homes to governance, business, education, healthcare, and smart city development.
To meet these changes, she encouraged SICTA to expand training programmes covering IoT fundamentals, fibre optic installation, 5G education, data communications, and AI applications.
“These programmes not only build local expertise but also align with the government’s call for digital transformation in manufacturing and services.
“With systematic growth in human resources, processes and technology, Malaysian enterprises can become smarter and more competitive under Industry 4.0,” she explained.
She added that such efforts would pave the way for Malaysia to emerge as a leading high-tech nation and achieve a place among the world’s top 30 in the Global Innovation Index.
At the same time, Lau raised concerns about the growing issue of electronic waste.
“Devices like smartphones, laptops, and power banks are now indispensable. But when they are discarded, they can pile up into mountains of e-waste.
“If we ignore environmental protection, tomorrow’s forests may be replaced by heaps of electronics.
“Thus, while enjoying the convenience of technology, we must also recycle used devices responsibly,” she stressed.
She called on SICTA not only to focus on training and innovation but also to raise public awareness of sustainability.
“Let us move forward hand in hand – making technology the driver of progress, and environmental protection our shared responsibility.
“As we pursue innovation and intelligence, may we also become a model of green and sustainable development,” she said.
Also present were Deputy Digital Minister, Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong; Sibu Municipal Council Chairman, Clarence Ting Ing Horth; Sibu Rural District Council Chairman, Sempurai Petrus Ngelai; SICTA Chairman, Yong Chee Tak; and Organising Committee chairman, Wong Ing Ang.
