Technological Advancement Must Align With Character Building, Moral Values – Perlis Raja Muda

KANGAR, July 29 (Bernama) -- The Raja Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail, has asserted that technological advancement must go hand in hand with the development of identity, moral values, and digital ethics.

Speaking during the closing ceremony of the NextGen AiREd Fest 2025 today, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin emphasised that children who are well-versed in artificial intelligence must also uphold good character and a sense of responsibility.

The Raja Puan Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Dr Hajah Lailatul Shahreen Akashah Khalil, was also in attendance.

Meanwhile, he said that cultivating AI technology and robotics at the grassroots level is a strategic long-term investment, expressing confidence that Perlis has the potential to produce world-class talent if such efforts are scaled up with the support of various stakeholders.

“I am incredibly proud and excited to see how the children of Perlis, from primary school to university level, are already showing the courage to explore technology and develop real-world solutions through artificial intelligence.

“NextGen AiREd Fest is not merely a platform for competition and talent showcase, but also a space to strengthen digital literacy, critical thinking, and the innovative capacity of the younger generation,” the Raja Muda said, while urging all parties, including the education sector, industry, and community, to work together in nurturing interest, creating opportunities, and paving the way for the youth of Perlis to explore future-forward fields.

Meanwhile, according to a statement by the event organiser, Faizuddin Centre of Educational Excellence (FCoEE), the two-day programme is a strategic initiative that brings together students from the AiREd and Junior AiREd Clubs in a prestigious state-level festival focused on technology and innovation.

It said both clubs are exclusive platforms that introduce primary and secondary school students to current technological fields such as robotics, programming, and artificial intelligence in a systematic and structured manner.

“This programme is designed to meet the needs and aspirations of 21st Century Education and is aligned with the national STEM Education Policy (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) as well as the National Digital Education Action Plan.

“Through a competitive and interactive approach, the programme not only uncovers students’ talents in the field of technology but also strengthens soft skills such as leadership, critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork,” read the statement.

It added that the involvement of international strategic partners from Thailand, along with local collaborators including Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) and the Perlis State Education Department, played a key role in the success of the programme.

-- BERNAMA