Sarawak to establish high-tech archive for MA63 documents, expand digital learning in rural areas
Abang Johari (fourth left) receives a memento from Dr Abang Abdul Rauf.
KUCHING (May 22): Sarawak is set to enhance its archival capabilities with a new state-of-the-art complex dedicated to preserving critical historical documents, including those related to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) sourced from London.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg stated this during the Sarawak State Library's Silver Jubilee celebration here Wednesday night.
He envisions the new Sarawak State Archives complex as one of the most advanced in the region, fully equipped to store both physical and digital copies of significant documents.
'This initiative reflects the state government's commitment to safeguarding Sarawak's historical legacy for future generations,' he said.
Abang Johari revealed that the state has secured several documents from the Historical Archives and the Museum of London, which have been requested for permanent housing in the new archive facility.
In addition, the Premier announced that the State Library will introduce a second international-themed resource centre – the USA Corner – following the success of the Canada Corner.
On the broader theme of digital inclusion, he emphasised the state's commitment to leveraging digital technologies to empower rural communities across Sarawak.
'Digital approaches must now become a priority in making learning more accessible and engaging, especially for remote areas where literacy remains a challenge,' he said.
To this end, the Premier underscored the importance of adopting innovative strategies, noting that rural villages without access to books could benefit from digital platforms.
'In places without books, we can deploy digital solutions in rural areas,' he said, citing the successful implementation of weekend activity centres involving village leaders, similar to the Pusat Aktiviti Warga Emas programme, as a model for introducing digital tools and promoting community learning.
'A new approach is needed, one that makes learning more engaging and enjoyable for villagers.
'If learning is limited to just reading, it becomes dull. Therefore, interaction and creativity are essential when communicating in a digital environment.'
He also expressed optimism regarding the S Pay Global e-wallet's role in facilitating the disbursement of aid under the Sumbangan Keperluan Asas Sarawak (SKAS) initiative, which he believes will accelerate digital adoption among senior citizens.
Present at the event were the Premier's wife Datuk Amar Juma'ani Tuanku Bujang; Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki; Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting; Sarawak State Library chairman Datuk Dr Abang Abdul Rauf Abang Zen; and the library's chief executive officer Japri Bujang Masli. historical documents lead library MA63 preserving
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