THE rapid development of technology has transformed the daily lives of Malaysians. This is because most of the transactions such as paying bills, ordering food through e-hailing platforms, e-commerce and using services at government agencies have now become easy with the influence of technology. Hence, it is important for all sections of society, including vulnerable groups such as the elderly, be equipped with adequate knowledge and skills, as well as provide them with suitable infrastructure to ensure they are not excluded from the current technological development.
This is in line with this year’s World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) theme which is “Digital technologies for older persons and healthy ageing”. This year, WTISD, which is celebrated every May 17, emphasises the well-being of senior citizens by utilising technology and information communication in helping seniors cope with healthier and meaningful ageing. This is also in tandem with the government’s efforts to strengthen digital adaptation in the country, especially the vulnerable group. These efforts are reflected through the implementation of various awareness programmes and tutorials in promoting positive, productive and ethical use of the Internet. Over the past 10 years, the government has collectively spent RM50mil to develop a digitally literate community, which includes the elderly. For 2022, about RM6mil has been allocated for the same purpose.
This is an increase of 20% from the previous year’s allocation. The allocation will be used to train the local community including senior citizens through the Klik Dengan Bijak programme, Malaysian ICT Volunteers, a series of trainings at the Pusat Ekonomi Digital Keluarga Malaysia (PEDi), and Cybersecurity Malaysia’s digital literacy programmes nationwide. In addition, the National Digital Infrastructure Plan (JENDELA), the PEDi and the Mercu Ekonomi Digital Keluarga Malaysia (MEDi) are all long-term plans designed to create a competitive, creative and connected society. Under the JENDELA Plan, the government is committed to improving digital connectivity and achieving 100% 4G coverage in populated areas, as well as fiberise nine million premises in stages with a speed of 100Mbps to provide better Internet service by 2025.
To ensure that these initiatives can be implemented transparently and the benefits enjoyed by the Rakyat, K-KOMM will implement the following; first, carrying out monitoring from time to time through a series of field trips nationwide. Second, to ensure the audit of telecommunication network services so that the quality reaches the required level. Third, tighten the regulation of the telecommunications and multimedia industry so that the quality of services and good user experience can be enhanced from time to time. With the consolidation of digital infrastructure, it will indirectly help the country to transition to a digital economy. These efforts also have an impact on the elderly.
The government’s decision in transforming PEDi in order to create an entrepreneurial society can be utilised by senior citizens to generate a source of income while enabling them to cover their cost of living. Meanwhile, the recent announcement of MEDi is expected to boost the empowerment of Keluarga Malaysia digital entrepreneurs by offering various digital technology facilities to enable them to grow their digital business acumen through the physical platform provided at MEDi to showcase and promote their products. Insya-Allah, with all the efforts planned by the government, it is able to give a positive impact to the welfare of Malaysians, including senior citizens, in facing the rapidly growing digital era. Selamat menyambut Hari Telekomunikasi dan Masyarakat Berinformasi Sedunia 2022!
Tan Sri Annuar Musa;
ommunications and Multimedia Minister