Digital economy framework vital for progress

BELAGA: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s vision of a digital economy framework is aimed at elevating the state to a higher level.

According to Murum assemblyman Kennedy Chukpai Ugon, it also aims to enhance the quality of life for the people of Sarawak, meet the cultural needs of the current era, and further boost the community’s output and productivity.

“It simultaneously upgrades the lifestyle system to a more current and better state without neglecting the authenticity of Sarawak’s traditional customs and culture,” he said.

He said this when officiating at the Customer Day organised by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) at Dewan Adet Bangen Kimet, Uma Baha in Sungai Asap on Saturday (July 27)

He stressed that whether in business transactions, seeking and obtaining information, or even daily communication, the world’s changing trends have been driven towards the digital realm.

“Therefore, the Sarawak government has adapted this digital system not only in the economic sector but also encompassing almost all aspects of administration, including new fields being explored.

“This has proven the high commitment of the Sarawak government’s leadership to advance Sarawak’s economy in line with the PCDS 2030 policy, launched to stimulate Sarawak’s economic growth to continue progressing,” he added.

Meanwhile, on UKAS, he said that it plays a crucial role in delivering accurate and precise information about the policies and initiatives of the Sarawak government through various social media platforms.

“UKAS’ role helps counter false news circulating on social media platforms and becoming the talk among the community in coffee shops and elsewhere,” he said.

“This is like a cancer that can erode unity among the community and hinder joint efforts to advance Sarawak,” he added.

Chukpai stressed that freedom in disseminating information should be used responsibly to ensure all information or news delivered or shared is accurate.

“I hope that all community members do not easily follow extreme foreign cultures that do not match the traditional eastern characteristics we have practised for so long.

“This is our shared responsibility to provide the next generation with the authenticity of our culture,” he added.

Regarding the programme, he said it is very useful as a platform that opens up space and opportunities for the people to meet and get to know the Sarawak government agencies, especially UKAS, which is the main machinery in delivering accurate and authentic government information and introducing the latest government initiatives and policies to the community.

At the event, Chukpai handed over certificates of appreciation to the agencies participating in the UKAS Customer Day exhibition, consisting of six agencies: Employees Provident Fund (KWSP), Sarawak Skills, Sarawak State Health Department, Social Security Organisation (Socso), Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority (Risda), and the Department of Social Welfare.

Additionally, Chukpai announced special project contributions to the Asap Festival Committee (RM100,000), Adet Tapok Penan Committee, Belaga District (RM30,000), Rando Belaga Committee (RM20,000), PIBG SK Long Urun (RM10,000), PIBG SK Lusong Laku (RM10,000), PIBG SK Metalun Belaga (RM10,000), and PIBG SK Tegulang (RM10,000).

Also present were the Political Secretary to the Sarawak Premier, Thomas Balan Bang, and UKAS Assistant Director Joachim Paggang Labong.