Association proposes govt subsidies for laptops, electronics for underserved to propel Sarawak’s tech future

Yap (seated fifth left), Chong (seated third left) and other distinguished guests photographed during SICTA's 23rd anniversary dinner at Waterfront Hotel on Dec 14, 2023.

KUCHING, Dec 15:The proposal from the Sarawak ICT Association (SICTA) urging the Sarawak government to subsidise the purchase of laptops and electronic devices for less privileged Sarawakians could significantly accelerate the State’s digital transformation if approved.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian praised the proposal, suggesting that assistance could be provided in the form of vouchers redeemable at any business outlets affiliated with SICTA.

“In return, SICTA can commit itself to facilitate basic computer trainings, which may contribute to the digital economic transformation goals of the Sarawak government under the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint (SDEB) and Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.

“This collaboration would present an exceptional opportunity for all members of the SICTA to explore and contribute to the State’s digital advancement in line with the SDEB and PCDS 2030 goals to modernise and increase efficiency driven by both digital and physical connectivity,” he said in his text speech read by Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap at the SICTA’s 23rd anniversary dinner held at Waterfront Hotel here last night (Dec 14).

Dr Sim, who is also Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, highlighted that the blueprint serves as a living document of Sarawak government’s resolve and commitment to transform the State’s economy from conventional resource based to an environmentally sustainable technology-based economy by 2030.

The digital economy initiatives undertaken by the Sarawak government is expected to contribute RM56.4 billion to Sarawak’s gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030 and create 45,000 high paying jobs.

“Members of SICTA can actively play its role and be part of this Sarawak government’s digital transformation vision and clear direction by helping the public to enhance their computer knowledge and usage to succeed in the digital world where everyone would benefit from the digital economy,” he added.

At the event, SICTA received grants amounting to RM25,000 with contributions from Dr Sim (RM10,000), Stampin MP and Padungan assemblyman Chong Chieng Jen (RM10,000) and Yap (RM5,000). — DayakDaily