ICT, media network formation on the way

* Berita ini terdapat dalam Bahasa Inggeris sahaja.

KUCHING: The formation of the state’s information and communication technology (ICT) and media network will be on its way in March this year.Angkatan Zaman Mansang (Azam), Sarawak Information Systems Sdn Bhd (Sains) and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) are planning to form a network bringing together stakeholders in the information industry, especially the media, to enhance access to information pertinent to ICT and reporting skills.

“The ultimate goal is to improve the media’s ICT reporting skills in the state so they will be able to convey issues on ICT more effectively to the public. We are also building a network as a medium where the media and the sources of ICT development can communicate effectively,” said Azam general manager Rosalind Yang during a brainstorming session with representatives from the media, Sains and Unimas yesterday.

The state feels it’s important to keep the public informed on current ICT issues to keep them ahead of other countries.

“In depth knowledge on ICT development will help encourage positive things such as business competitiveness through ICT and help online entrepreneurs market their product. Therefore, it is hoped that through this network, the media can help disperse ICT matters to the public more effectively,” she said.

Rosalind also encouraged members of the media who are interested in polishing their skills in ICT reporting to join the network this March.

According to Sains head of business development and corporate communications Lucy Wong, Sains and Azam will set up a secretariat team to facilitate a page on Facebook that is set up to create a common venue for network participants.

On measures taken by Sains in promoting ICT in the state, she said Sains is lobbying for more federal allocations to develop network infrastructure.

Sains is also working with mobile operators to help set up Internet connections in rural areas.

“Sarawak came in fourth in Malaysia for internet penetration. Geographically, we are quite secluded from the mainland and the internet highway can be used as a channel to get closer to the rest of Malaysia and truly embrace the spirit of 1Malaysia,” said Wong.

by Zoee Hillson; The Borneo Post