Latest news with #WilsonUgakKumbong
The Sun
17-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Jelajah Komuniti Digital boosts rural tech skills in Belaga
BELAGA: The Ministry of Digital is stepping up efforts to close the digital gap in rural Sarawak through its 'Jelajah Komuniti Digital' initiative at SMK Belaga. The programme, designed to strengthen digital literacy, is a joint effort between the ministry, the Department of Personal Data Protection (JPDP), MYNIC Bhd, and Alibaba Cloud. Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong reiterated the ministry's dedication to inclusive digital growth, ensuring no community is excluded from technological advancements. 'We urge all Malaysians to embrace a digital-first approach as the backbone of a thriving digital economy,' he said during the launch. The sessions covered digital education, personal data security, digital identity management, and introductory AI training. Over 300 students, 40 community leaders, and government agency representatives participated, gaining hands-on experience in cloud computing and AI through Alibaba Cloud's interactive modules. Wilson also engaged with attendees in an open dialogue, reinforcing the government's push for nationwide digital inclusivity. The initiative aligns with Malaysia's goal of becoming a competitive, digitally inclusive economy. - BERNAMA
Barnama
17-07-2025
- Business
- Barnama
'Jelajah Komuniti Digital' Empowers Belaga Communities Through Technology
BELAGA, July 17 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Digital continues to intensify efforts to bridge the digital divide through its 'Jelajah Komuniti Digital' programme at SMK Belaga here. The programme aimed at enhancing digital literacy and awareness in rural communities is a strategic collaboration between the ministry and its agencies, including the Department of Personal Data Protection (JPDP), MYNIC Bhd, and the programme's main technology partner Alibaba Cloud. Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong, who officiated the programme, emphasised his ministry's unwavering commitment to ensuring inclusive digital development across the country, including in rural and interior areas like Belaga. "The Ministry of Digital will continue our efforts to reach every corner of the nation to ensure no community is left behind. We encourage all Malaysians to adopt a digital-first mindset as the foundation for a thriving digital economy," he said. The programme featured sessions focusing on digital education, personal data protection, digital identity management and early exposure to Artificial Intelligence (AI). These areas are designed to equip students, teachers, community leaders, and civil servants with the knowledge and tools necessary to participate meaningfully in the digital era. Alibaba Cloud's involvement further enriched the programme through interactive learning experiences on cloud technology and AI, highlighting the importance of public-private partnerships in supporting Malaysia's digital transformation goals. More than 300 students, 40 community leaders, and representatives from various government agencies in the Belaga district attended the programme. Participants also had the opportunity to engage directly with Wilson during a casual dialogue session and took part in hands-on technology-driven activities.
Borneo Post
17-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Digital Ministry brings AI, tech awareness to rural students in Belaga
Ugak (seated fifth left) in a photocall with other guests and students. BELAGA (July 17): The Digital Ministry remains committed to accelerating the national digitalisation agenda through grassroots initiatives such as the Jelajah Komuniti Digital programme, said Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong. Speaking during the programme at SMK Belaga on Wednesday, the Hulu Rajang MP said the outreach aims to boost digital awareness among rural communities, particularly students in remote areas. 'It not only introduces digital education but also empowers students with knowledge, career insights, awareness on online scams, and the relevance of emerging technologies in everyday life,' he said. Ugak noted that the initiative reflects the ministry's broader mission to nurture a 'digital-first' mindset and foster a more inclusive, tech-ready society. Held in collaboration with key agencies under the ministry, including the Department of Personal Data Protection, MYNIC Berhad, and official tech partner Alibaba Cloud, the programme features modules on digital literacy, data privacy, digital identity, and early exposure to artificial intelligence (AI). 'We are now in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, driven by technologies such as AI. 'AI is no longer a futuristic concept, it is already embedded in our daily lives. In education, AI is used to analyse student performance and automatically recommend suitable learning content,' he said. He cited examples of AI in education, where smart platforms now analyse student performance and generate tailored quizzes, notes, and exercises to support teachers. Ugak also highlighted AI applications in healthcare where it helps doctors diagnose conditions using scan images such as MRIs and X-rays and in agriculture, where it aids in disease detection, weather monitoring, and optimal harvesting. 'Even in our daily lives, AI is present in digital assistants like Siri or Google Assistant, organising our photos and videos or offering personalised shopping suggestions,' he said. He stressed that rural students must be equipped with digital skills from an early age, and assured that the ministry will continue expanding education-based initiatives to bridge the digital divide in Sarawak. The event drew over 300 students, 40 community leaders, and representatives from various government agencies across the Belaga district. Students also took part in a casual dialogue session with the Deputy Minister and participated in hands-on tech-based activities. AI belaga digital digital ministry Wilson Ugak
The Sun
10-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
MDEC launches MD Business Digitalisation Initiative in Sarawak
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) on Wednesday launched its MD Business Digitalisation Initiative (BDI) in Sarawak – marking its first rollout in East Malaysia – to accelerate inclusive digital growth by equipping micro, small, and medium enterprises with innovative tools to boost productivity, streamline operations, and future-proof their businesses. The event in Kuching was officiated by Sarawak Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi. The initiative is delivered in collaboration with Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) and the Ministry of International Trade and Industry, Industrial Terminal and Entrepreneur Development (Nintred) Sarawak. Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong said, 'The Ministry of Digital remains committed to supporting every corner of the nation in this digital journey. Sarawak's MSMEs play a crucial role in driving regional economic growth. By embracing digitalisation and e-Invoicing, they are positioning themselves for greater efficiency, transparency, and global competitiveness. This initiative is a testament to our shared vision of building an inclusive and future-ready digital economy.' He added that Sarawak's leadership in renewable energy, combined with its digital ambition, creates a unique platform for innovation and. furthermore, they are committed to working hand-in-hand with the state to realise this vision and as a long-term partner. 'With Sarawak's Digital Economy Blueprint 2030 in full motion, the collaboration between the ministry – including its agencies like MDEC – and the state is expected to intensify in the weeks and months ahead for the greater good of the state, its MSME community and the people of Sarawak,' Ugak said. Meanwhile, MDEC CEO Anuar Fariz Fadzil said Sarawak is a vital part of Malaysia's digital future, and they are committed to the pursuitof state-level transformation, fostering local innovation and create long-term, sustainable economic opportunities. 'Through close collaboration with the visionary state government, the ministry and MDEC will continue our efforts to empower local MSMEs. This initiative is about building a future-ready business ecosystem, ensuring that no MSME is left behind in the digital economy,' he added. Through the initiative, Sarawak businesses are now able to gain access to digital advisory services, live product demonstrations from 404 accredited partners, together with tailored solutions based on their operational challenges. To ease the adoption of e-Invoicing among MSMEs, the ministry has introduced a suite of freemium and affordable solutions provided by MDEC-accredited service providers including Malaysia Digital status companies such as Xero and Big Ledger Sdn Bhd. These solutions are compliant with both Peppol and Inland Revenue Board tax requirements, offering MSMEs a smooth and cost-effective path to digital compliance.
Malay Mail
06-07-2025
- Politics
- Malay Mail
Citing QR codes for donations, Sarawak deputy minister urges religious houses to embrace tech in worship
MIRI, July 6 — The rapid development of the digital world today should be embraced positively, not only for daily needs but also in religious practices and the management of places of worship, said Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong. Ugak said the public can utilise today's digital technologies to manage their places of worship more systematically, while also strengthening community bonds through healthy communication among themselves and with followers of other religions. 'Technology can be used to connect everyone, regardless of religious background. I believe that digital technology is a tool that can be used for good, and it should be harnessed to benefit the wider community, including the Christian community. 'For example, using kiosks to register church attendance or QR codes for donations to churches or relevant religious activities,' he said during a charity dinner held to raise funds in conjunction with the 37th anniversary celebration of the Miri City Iban Methodist Church last night. Ugak added that Sarawak continues to set a positive example for the rest of the country when in terms of racial and religious harmony. 'The diversity of ethnicities and beliefs in this state is not only respected but also celebrated in daily life. This is the uniqueness of Sarawak that we must preserve and pass on to future generations. 'I would also like to express my appreciation to the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) Sarawak, which continues to play a vital role in supporting and empowering non-Muslim religious institutions in the state,' he said. Ugak added that with the various initiatives and assistance provided, Unifor demonstrates the Sarawak government's commitment to ensuring that all houses of worship, including the Miri City Iban Methodist Church, receive the necessary support to function effectively as centres of worship and welfare. He also reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting and respecting freedom of religion, including the right of the Christian community to practise their faith freely. 'In this spirit, I would like to thank the Miri City Iban Methodist Church and all its congregation members who continue to play an active role in contributing to community development, particularly in providing support and welfare to those in need. 'I deeply appreciate the role of religion, including Christianity, in nurturing good values within our society. The teachings of love, humility, and mutual assistance found in Christianity are essential foundations for our collective well-being,' he said. Also present were Political Secretary to the Premier of Sarawak Pandang Semat, Sarawak Iban Annual Conference (SIAC) president Rev Bonnie Sedau and his wife Rev Yan Foon Peng, Bintulu Iban Methodist Church head Rev Lembai Banyang, Miri City Iban Methodist Church supervising pastor Rev Breindstein Kulleh, Miri City Iban Methodist Church head Jambi Jawat, Miri City Iban Methodist Church executive committee chairman Dominic Untam, and organising chairman Daniel Liman. — The Borneo Post
