KOTA SAMARAHAN: Education is the foundation of individual and community development, especially in Malaysia's efforts to achieve the status of a high-income country.

The Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development, Datuk Rubiah Wang said the world today is facing a rapid digital revolution and this change has a great impact on education and learning methods.

"Regarding the future direction of education, we cannot escape the reality that the world is currently facing a rapid digital revolution.

"This change has a big impact on the way we educate and learn," he said.

She said this at the Closing Ceremony of the Sarawak Education Convention 2024 held at Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Campus 2 Samarahan Branch on Saturday.

Datuk Rubiah added that the transition to digital education is not just a necessity but also an opportunity that should be utilised as best as possible.

She quoted statistical reports showing an increase in the use of internet among Malaysian students to almost 90 percent, indicating that they are now more ready to accept new learning approaches.

"With the use of technology such as artificial intelligence (AI) and online learning, we can expand the reach of education to students across the country.

"This is an important step so that students from remote areas can also pursue knowledge more effectively," she added.

This convention is held through the collaboration of government agencies, educational institutions and private sector partners such as Sparks Education Plt, UiTM Sarawak Branch, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Department of Education Negeri Sembilan and Sekolah Kebangsaan Puteri, Negeri Sembilan, aiming to support the holistic development of students through strategic initiatives.

Also present were the Assistant Rector of UiTM Sarawak Branch Campus 2, Prof. Associate Dr Abdul Razak Abdul Kadir, Chief Executive Officer of SPARKS Education PLT, Dr Angie Garret and other guests of honour. -UKASnews