Girl Guides Must Embrace Technology, Says Dr Wan Azizah

KOTA BHARU, May 21 (Bernama) -- Members of the Girl Guides Association Malaysia (PPPM) must harness the latest technological advancements to implement more high-impact programmes that can produce more capable women, youths, and adults who are able to drive change for the benefit of the nation, in line with the association’s vision and mission, said its president Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.

She said current technological developments such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) have made many daily tasks easier, whether at home, school, or work, through wireless controls and a variety of smart applications now available at our fingertips.

The Prime Minister’s wife reminded members to use technology with courtesy and discipline.

“More importantly, always be cautious and take the necessary steps to verify information to avoid falling victim to scams or unintentionally spreading false news.

“We cannot blindly believe everything we see and read. I will not stop speaking about this because technology continues to advance rapidly,” she said at the opening of the conference and the 60th Annual General Meeting of the association at the Tok Guru Dato' Bentara Setia Hall, Kota Darulnaim Complex, here today.

The events were launched by Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia.

Dr Wan Azizah said new developments and capabilities are being announced every day, and society must be broadly educated so that people are aware and know how to use technology responsibly.

“Artificial intelligence can sometimes deceive us without our realising it, and it can also create negative perceptions when used irresponsibly,” she said.

She added that both spoken and written communication are now exposed to the risk of manipulation if one is not vigilant.

Dr Wan Azizah cited the recent passing of the Take It Down Act by the United States government as an example, highlighting its aim to curb the misuse of deepfakes and combat the growing crime of sexual extortion.

“We must remember that our primary duty, all of us gathered in this hall, is to educate our children to uphold noble values, and to practise good manners and social etiquette, whether in daily life or on social media.

“No matter how busy we are, the task of educating must remain a top priority in everything we do. Education is a long-term investment that will yield results in the future,” she said.

She added that despite these technological advancements, society must not overlook social issues that still persist today.

“For example, cases of physical, mental, and cyberbullying,” she said.

Dr Wan Azizah said if left unchecked, such issues would severely impact mental wellbeing and self-confidence, not only among children but also youths and adults.

She said PPPM, through strategic collaboration with the Ministry of Education, would intensify efforts to tackle bullying through a character development-based education approach, leadership training centred on empathy, and activities that promote respect, tolerance, and social responsibility.

-- BERNAMA