Latest news with #CorporateAffairsandSarawakPublicCommunicationsUnit
Borneo Post
02-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak to provide specialised AI training for teachers, says Premier
Abang Johari officiates the launch of the Sarawak Media Conference (SMeC) 2025 as other distinguished guests look on during the ceremony at a hotel here today. – Photo by Chimon Upon KUCHING (July 2): The Sarawak government will provide specialised training in artificial intelligence (AI) for teachers across the state to equip them with the knowledge and skills to integrate AI into classroom teaching. Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said this in response to a request from Sarawak teachers, conveyed by Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Corporate Affairs and Sarawak Public Communications Unit) Datuk Abdullah Saidol. 'With the request of the teachers, I support your request. What is important is the value — the value system in AI — so that we can educate our students not to misuse AI,' said Abang Johari during his officiating speech at the opening ceremony of the Sarawak Media Conference (SMeC) 2025 at a hotel here today. 'We have to tell them, enabler — AI is just a machine. A machine without common touch. But we are not machines, we have emotion,' he added. Earlier in his welcoming remarks, Abdullah touched on the theme of the conference, 'Artificial Intelligence: Shaping the Future of Media and Journalism', and presented a short AI-generated video clip by a local teacher. According to Abdullah, Cikgu Zul — who teaches at SK Green Road Primary School — is passionate about AI and had asked for his message to be conveyed to the Premier. 'On behalf of all the teachers in Sarawak with similar interest and passion about AI, he would like to seek your kind consideration for the Sarawak government to consider providing special training programmes or seminars for all teachers to enhance their knowledge and know-how about AI,' he said. Speaking at a press conference later, Abang Johari reiterated that AI will be a key enabler across various sectors in Sarawak. 'I tell you, number one, AI will be the enabler that we adopt in whatever we do — agriculture, manufacturing, even in the social sector,' he said. He also stressed the need to instil ethics and responsibility in the use of AI. 'Number two is the question of morality and ethics — that's where we have to educate the people that this is just a tool for you to produce something. But this tool must not be abused — just like a knife. You educate people to use the knife for kitchenware; you don't use the knife to kill. 'Otherwise, you may abuse the function of AI. And this is why we have to educate our people — that AI is an enabler; you use it to improve your life, not to destroy it,' he said. Also present at the ceremony were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah; Minister for Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom; and State Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar. abang johari AI training lead teachers
Borneo Post
29-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak to enhance journalists' expertise with international training initiative, says Premier
Abang Johari speaks to the media after officiating at the Asia Carbon Conference 2025 today. – Ukas photo KUCHING (May 29): The Sarawak government is set to send state journalists abroad to participate in journalism-related programmes aimed at enhancing their expertise to match international standards, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. 'I have instructed together with (Deputy Minister in Sarawak Premier's Department (Corporate Affairs and Sarawak Public Communications Unit)) Datuk Abdullah Saidol to start this programme for the future of Sarawak journalism,' he said when met by reporters after officiating at the Asia Carbon Conference 2025 today. Abang Johari explained that this programme is not just an opportunity for free education, but a long-term investment to elevate the professionalism and critical thinking skills of journalists in the state. 'We will work with the journalists' association to assess eligible candidates, including in terms of qualifications and background,' he said. He also stressed the importance of journalists who are not only skilled in reporting but also possess vision and insightful ideas to drive innovation within the media industry. 'I hope this program can improve the quality of reporting and open up more space for innovation in journalism,' he said. This initiative is a continuation of the government's commitment made last year. It was well received by the media practitioners present, and was considered as a recognition of the important role of journalists in the development of society and the country. abang johari abroad international training journalists media
Borneo Post
04-05-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
James Ritchie's legacy will inspire generations, says Abdullah Saidol
Datuk Abdullah Saidol – File photo KUCHING (May 4): Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Corporate Affairs and Sarawak Public Communications Unit) Datuk Abdullah Saidol has paid tribute to the late James Alexander Ritchie, describing him as a towering figure in Malaysian journalism whose legacy will continue to inspire generations. According to Abdullah, Ritchie's passing marks the loss of an outstanding media veteran whose nearly five-decade career was defined by unwavering dedication and journalistic excellence. 'We have lost a distinguished individual from among our veteran media practitioners – someone whose experience and career journey as a journalist and writer were nothing short of extraordinary,' he said in a statement today. Abdullah noted that Ritchie's commitment to journalism since 1971 positioned him as a key witness to many significant developments and historical events, particularly in Sarawak. Despite his passing, Abdullah said Ritchie's contributions would live on through his exemplary professionalism and his extensive body of work. 'His involvement and dedication over almost five decades made him a central figure in chronicling the evolution of our nation's history, especially in Sarawak. 'He leaves behind a lasting legacy – not only through his professional conduct but also through numerous writings and books, which remain relevant and serve as important reference materials,' he said. Ritchie, 75 passed away at the Padungan Polyclinic yesterday. His death was confirmed by former State Legislative Assembly Speaker Dato Sri Jacob Robert Ridu. Widely regarded as one of Sarawak's most accomplished journalists and authors, Ritchie was honoured with the National Journalists' Day (Hawana) 2024 Award during a celebration in Kuching last year, presented by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Ritchie's career began in the early 1970s as a crime reporter with the New Straits Times in Kuala Lumpur, covering high-profile stories including the Japanese Red Army attack on the U.S. Embassy, and the capture of infamous criminal Botak Chin. His journalistic journey later led him to Sarawak as NST's first correspondent in the state. Over time, he authored more than 40 books, many focusing on indigenous culture, local legends, and significant moments in Sarawak's history. Born in Penang, Ritchie moved to Sarawak with his family in the 1960s, making the state his permanent home. Throughout his distinguished career, he also served in key media advisory roles and was widely respected for his passion, discipline, and storytelling prowess. Funeral arrangements are currently underway, with a service scheduled at St Thomas' Cathedral here on Tuesday (May 7), followed by cremation. Abdullah Saidol James Alexander Ritchie lead
