KUCHING: A groundbreaking training and engagement session brought 76 seniors from nine organisations together with youth cyber ambassadors for hands-on artificial intelligence (AI) training here recently.
The “AI Made Simple: Practical Skills for Older Adults” programme was hosted by the Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus (Swinburne Sarawak).
The workshop, held on Sept 27 under the national award-winning Digital Technologies Seniors Programme (DTSP), was co-organised by Swinburne Sarawak and Persatuan Kebajikan Rolf Schnyder, marking a significant step forward in bridging the digital divide through inter-generational learning.
“Artificial intelligence is no longer the future; it is already woven into everyday life, from healthcare and finance to communication. Yet, many older adults risk being excluded from its benefits or falling victim to sophisticated AI-driven scams,” said Head of Department at Swinburne Sarawak and co-founder of DTSP Chai Ching Yi.
“This workshop wasn’t just about teaching AI, it was about restoring confidence, promoting dignity, and building bridges between generations.
“When older adults have a happy and empowering first experience with technology, they’re more likely to continue learning and even lead their own workshops in the future.”she said.
The full-day workshop equipped seniors with practical experience using simple AI tools while providing essential strategies for online safety, directly addressing the growing risk of AI-driven scams targeting older adults.
Participants represented Pesara RTM, Sarawak Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SCCI), Sarawak Gerontology and Geriatrics Society, Social Welfare Council of Sarawak, Lions Club of Kuching City, Lions Club of Kuching Ixora, Lions Club of Kota Samarahan, Lions Club of Kuching Unity, and Lions Club of Kuching Hornbill.
“Participants were invited to join a dedicated WhatsApp group where they could continue engaging with youth cyber ambassadors, ask questions, and verify suspicious messages in a safe, trusted environment,” she said.
“The initiative aligns with the Ministry of Women, Early Childhood and Community Well-being Development’s mandate of sustaining community well-being for a dignified existence for all.”
She added that youth participants guided seniors in real time while seniors shared life experiences and mentorship.
