Felda Bukit Batu NADI Centre Helps Children, Seniors Gain Digital Literacy

By Nur Fadhliana Shaari

KULAI, Sept 24 (Bernama) -- The National Information Dissemination Centre (NADI Centre) in Felda Bukit Batu near here serves as a vital hub for villagers, providing a primary gateway to the world of information technology for everyone, from kindergarten children to senior citizens.

Since its inception in 2010, the NADI Centre has aided villagers with government-related matters, education, employment, and community activities, easing daily tasks while expanding digital literacy opportunities for all age groups.

Assistant Community Educator at Tabika Kemas Felda Bukit Batu, Norizan Sahem, 54, said kindergarten pupils also benefit from the centre by learning how to use computers, helping them become familiar with the digital world from an early age.

"They're excited when it's their turn to come here. Currently, we bring the children in once a month, but if possible, we'd like to increase the frequency, as they learn quickly and become more confident using computers. They really enjoy it, especially learning together with friends,” said the Felda Bukit Batu Women's Movement Association (GPW) secretary.

"I personally come here often because, as GPW secretary, I require the facilities to prepare meeting minutes and so on. This venue is truly a complete one-stop centre that makes it easier for me to handle meetings and printing, and it's also a very comfortable place,” she said, adding that the facility has made things much easier for her.

Abd Rahman Md Yusof, 67, the treasurer of Masjid Al Muhajirin in Felda Bukit Batu, said he often visits the NADI Centre to manage the mosque’s accounts, including accessing monthly statements and printing documents.

"Sincerely, thank you whoever came up with the idea to establish this NADI Centre. It's ideal for us villagers because of the stable internet connection. If we encounter any problems, the staff is quick to assist us. For those of us who are older and may not be very tech-savvy, it's invaluable to have someone guide us, which makes managing mosque affairs much easier.

"Without this centre, it would be difficult, as internet access in Felda is sometimes limited. This centre is vital for young people to learn and spend their time productively," said the retiree.

For Masjid Al Muhajirin Felda Bukit Batu assistant secretary Mazlan Mohamad, 48, the NADI Centre is the go-to place for villagers to handle various matters, from printing and checking government assistance, such as Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR), to attending computer courses and participating in community activities.

"In the past, if we didn't know how to do something, we had to find someone skilled with computers. Now it's easier, as the staff here show us how, and its location is strategic, near the school and mosque, so many villagers make use of it.

"I've also organised IT-related programmes here, such as competitions and introductory courses, and the villagers have really benefited from them,” he said, adding that the centre allows villagers to learn computer skills.

Meanwhile, Felda Bukit Batu village chief, Jamallulail Ahmad, said the NADI Centre has indeed brought significant benefits to residents, who previously faced difficulties accessing the internet.

He said that since its establishment, the centre has provided villagers with the opportunity to use it for various online purposes, including accessing government services, supporting children's learning, and exploring job opportunities.

"When there are programmes or events, the response is also very encouraging, as many people attend and use the services provided by NADI. Thanks to the government for always being attentive," he added.

-- BERNAMA