Sabah To Step Up Internet Access For Rural Schools 

PAITAN, Dec 20 (Bernama) -- The State Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (KPSTI) will step up efforts to provide more internet facilities to schools across Sabah, particularly in rural and remote areas, beginning next year.

Its minister, Datuk James Ratib, said special focus will be given to rural and interior areas that have yet to enjoy such facilities, to ensure that no pupils or students are left behind in the digital education landscape in line with current developments.

“We do not want any more pupils or students to face difficulties in accessing the internet. These efforts will be continued and expanded from time to time,” he said in a statement after officiating the Paitan District Christmas and New Year Celebration here today.

He said that this year alone, about 300 schools throughout Sabah have been equipped with Starlink satellite devices to facilitate internet access and support teaching and learning processes.

James, who is also Sugut assemblyman, said Starlink facilities are not only important for schools, but should also be extended to local communities through the e-Desa initiative, particularly in villages that still lack internet coverage.

Meanwhile, he said the Sugut area, which has been listed among the 10 poorest areas in the country, is one of his priorities to be developed and lifted out of poverty within the next five years.

In this regard, he called on all parties to work together to ensure that the Paitan district and the Sugut area continue to progress in step with current development trends for the well-being of the local community.

Touching on the celebration, James said festive events involving various races and religions in Sabah continue to serve as an important platform for fostering harmony, unity and mutual respect among the people.

-- BERNAMA