The Minister of Communications and Digital in Malaysia concluded a productive three-day working visit to Sarawak today. The visit, which began on 19 May 2023, focused on enhancing the strategic partnership between the Ministry of Communications and Digital (KKD) and the Sarawak State Government.
During a courtesy meeting with the Chief Minister of Sarawak, the Minister of Communications and Digital reaffirmed the government’s dedication to improving internet access, enhancing telecommunications infrastructure, and narrowing the digital divide in Sarawak.
Additionally, the Minister of Communications and Digital delivered a keynote address at the Asia Pacific Cyber Security Conference (ASPEC) 2023, hosted at Kuching’s Pullman Hotel. The conference, jointly organised by the Sarawak Institute of Management (MASA) and a leading ICT Systems Integrator and Solutions Provider in Sarawak, provided a platform to discuss crucial cyber security matters.
During his speech, the minister highlighted the significance of international collaboration, emphasising the need for information sharing and practical strategies in the legal domain and raising awareness to effectively tackle cyber security challenges.
Furthermore, the Minister of Communications and Digital at the World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) 2023, the minister underscored the government’s dedication to fostering societal empowerment through digital transformation, aligning with the aspirations of Malaysia MADANI.
During his visit, the minister engaged with around 100 village chiefs, community leaders, and underprivileged individuals in the Jalinan Insan Wahana Aspirasi (JIWA) and Kita MADANI program. This initiative, organised by the Malaysian Information Department (JaPen) in Sarawak, aimed to connect with people from diverse backgrounds, fostering inclusivity and promoting government policies. Through informative and entertaining approaches, the program sought to raise awareness about the concept of Malaysia MADANI and empower individuals at all levels of society.
To wrap up the working visit, the Minister conducted a personal inspection of the facilities at the Kampung Trombol telecommunications tower in Kuching. During the inspection, he reassured that prompt measures and collaborative endeavours would be undertaken by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (SKMM), in conjunction with the state government and telecommunications companies, to tackle the challenge of naked towers. These towers, lacking necessary telecommunication equipment, would be addressed with utmost priority and concerted efforts to ensure effective connectivity and infrastructure deployment in the area.
The working visit saw the presence of the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Communications and Digital (KKD), along with representatives from the Sarawak State Government, department heads, and agencies operating under the purview of KKD, including SKMM.
The collective participation of these key stakeholders reinforced the collaborative and coordinated approach towards the objectives of the visit, fostering stronger cooperation and synergy between the ministry, state government, and relevant entities in Sarawak.
The Minister of Communications and Digital’s visit to Sarawak showcased the government’s unwavering commitment to harnessing the power of technology for the betterment of society. From strengthening strategic partnerships and addressing the digital divide to advocating for cyber security and empowering communities through digital transformation, the visit emphasised the pivotal role of technology in shaping the future of Sarawak.
Through collaborative efforts with stakeholders, active engagement with the community, and a focus on innovative solutions, the Ministry of Communications and Digital aims to propel Sarawak into a technologically advanced and inclusive society, poised to thrive in the digital era.
