BELAGA: With personal information and data becoming one of the most valuable assets in today’s digital age, students and educators must understand their rights as users and learn how to protect their personal data.
Deputy Minister of Digital, Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong, said this is crucial to prevent misuse of personal data by others.
“The Department of Personal Data Protection (JPDP) is the agency responsible for enforcing the Personal Data Protection Act 2010 (Act 709).
“That being said, early education on data privacy and protection is essential in shaping responsible digital citizens who are also legally literate,” he said.
He said this in his speech at the Digital Community Tour held at SMK Belaga today.
Wilson added that the Ministry of Digital is currently implementing several initiatives, including the expansion of Internet coverage through the construction of telecommunication towers, the development of fibre-optic networks, the establishment and operation of Digital Economic Centres (PEDi) nationwide, including in rural areas of Sarawak, as well as various digital literacy and artificial intelligence (AI) awareness programmes.
“All of these efforts are carried out to ensure that no Malaysian is left behind in the wave of technological advancement,” he said.
Speaking about the community tour programme, Ugak said its main objective is to raise awareness among rural communities, especially students from remote and rural areas.
“In addition to providing exposure to digital education, the programme allows students to gain knowledge, explore career pathways, identify online scams, and understand the importance of emerging technologies in daily life.
“This programme focuses on collaborative efforts from various parties to raise awareness on the importance of ICT knowledge, emerging technologies, and community service activities among rural populations.
“It aligns with the ministry’s goal of advancing the national digitalisation agenda and preparing society to be digitally literate or to adopt a ‘digital-first’ mindset.
“Programmes like this play a vital role in bringing digital education to rural communities and empowering them to keep pace with technological progress,” he added.
The programme received an encouraging response, with more than 300 students, 40 community leaders, and representatives from all government agencies in Belaga taking part.
Students also had the opportunity to engage in a casual dialogue session with Ugak and participated in interactive, technology-based activities.
