ULU BERANANG: A total of 789 residents from the Orang Asli Village Kampung Jeram, Kedah here undergone an information and communications technology (ICT) literacy programme called CT Literacy Cultivation Program and Orang Asli Community Service in New Norms, organised by the international Institute of Strategy (ISI) recently.
The programme, which was officiated by Communications and Multimedia deputy minister Datuk Zahidi Zainul Abidin, is a historic event for the Orang Asli there as this is the first time such programme is organised, where they get to learn about and use Internet technology.
Three villages were involved in this programme, which are Kg Jeram, Kg Lumut and Kg Machang.
"I was informed that this Internet Centre will be used for the villagers and it will provide an opportunity for the Orang Asli community here to use the Internet. I hope that with this Internet centre, the villagers, especially the children here, can continue with their learning easily. This facility will connect them to the rest of the world," said Zahidi when met at the ICT Literacy Cultivation Programme and Orang Asli Community Service here.
The initiative is part of the government's efforts to bridge the digital divide between the communities in the village and the city. Centres like this will enable the rural population to access broadband internet, and as well as be an initiative by the Government to ensure the indigenous community enjoy information and communication technology (ICT) facilities today.
Zahidi also said he would ensure that such programmes and assistance would be carried out throughout Malaysia. "Support and assistance from various government agencies as well as corporate companies can help realise this programme successfully," he said.
This programme is a collaboration among the Department of Orang Asli Development (JAKOA), State Health Department (JKN), National Registration Department (JPN) and the Election Commission (EC). Also sponsored by Kabaz Sdn Bhd, Malaysian Islamic Consumers Association (PPIM), YES College, Etika Sdn Bhd, Midea Scott & English Electronics Sdn Bhd and Syarikat Faiza Sdn Bhd.