Latest news with #Ugak
Borneo Post
7 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Digital Ministry brings AI, tech awareness to rural students in Belaga
Ugak (seated fifth left) in a photocall with other guests and students. BELAGA (July 17): The Digital Ministry remains committed to accelerating the national digitalisation agenda through grassroots initiatives such as the Jelajah Komuniti Digital programme, said Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong. Speaking during the programme at SMK Belaga on Wednesday, the Hulu Rajang MP said the outreach aims to boost digital awareness among rural communities, particularly students in remote areas. 'It not only introduces digital education but also empowers students with knowledge, career insights, awareness on online scams, and the relevance of emerging technologies in everyday life,' he said. Ugak noted that the initiative reflects the ministry's broader mission to nurture a 'digital-first' mindset and foster a more inclusive, tech-ready society. Held in collaboration with key agencies under the ministry, including the Department of Personal Data Protection, MYNIC Berhad, and official tech partner Alibaba Cloud, the programme features modules on digital literacy, data privacy, digital identity, and early exposure to artificial intelligence (AI). 'We are now in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, driven by technologies such as AI. 'AI is no longer a futuristic concept, it is already embedded in our daily lives. In education, AI is used to analyse student performance and automatically recommend suitable learning content,' he said. He cited examples of AI in education, where smart platforms now analyse student performance and generate tailored quizzes, notes, and exercises to support teachers. Ugak also highlighted AI applications in healthcare where it helps doctors diagnose conditions using scan images such as MRIs and X-rays and in agriculture, where it aids in disease detection, weather monitoring, and optimal harvesting. 'Even in our daily lives, AI is present in digital assistants like Siri or Google Assistant, organising our photos and videos or offering personalised shopping suggestions,' he said. He stressed that rural students must be equipped with digital skills from an early age, and assured that the ministry will continue expanding education-based initiatives to bridge the digital divide in Sarawak. The event drew over 300 students, 40 community leaders, and representatives from various government agencies across the Belaga district. Students also took part in a casual dialogue session with the Deputy Minister and participated in hands-on tech-based activities. AI belaga digital digital ministry Wilson Ugak
Borneo Post
09-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Julaihi: 603 SMART towers completed in Sarawak, 502 now 'on-air'
Julaihi (seated centre) flanked by Ugak (right) and Wan Murdani in a group photo with participants during the launch of the MD Business Digitalisation Initiative (BDI) @ Sarawak today. – Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad KUCHING (July 9): A total of 603 out of 618 Sarawak Multimedia Authority Rural Telecommunication (SMART) telecommunication towers have been completed across Sarawak, with 502 of them already activated or 'on-air', and 405 progressively equipped with advanced Multi-Operator Core Network (MOCN) technology. In disclosing this, Utility and Telecommunication Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi said digital transformation requires a strong infrastructure foundation. 'Therefore, the Sarawak Government launched the Sarawak Linking Urban, Rural and Nation (Saluran) programme, which targets the construction of 600 4G telecommunication towers in rural and remote areas of Sarawak under the SMART project, managed by Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC). 'As of today, 603 out of 618 SMART towers have been completed, with 502 already activated or 'on-air', and 405 progressively equipped with advanced Multi-Operator Core Network (MOCN) technology. 'This MOCN technology allows major telecommunications companies such as CelcomDigi, Maxis, U Mobile, YTL, and TM to provide their network services, enabling rural and remote communities to enjoy comprehensive coverage regardless of their chosen provider,' Julaihi said in his opening remarks at the MD Business Digitalisation Initiative (BDI) @ Sarawak held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today. He added that the introduction of the SMART towers was further strengthened by the rollout of the Sarawak Rural Broadband Network (MySRBN), launched in March 2021. 'MySRBN leverages Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) technology to deliver high-speed internet to rural communities that previously had no connectivity. 'To date, around 32,000 homes across Sarawak have been connected to MySRBN, and this number is expected to continue rising;' he said. Julaihi emphasised that MySRBN has stimulated economic growth by opening up new opportunities for rural entrepreneurs to engage in online business. He also stressed that successful digitalisation efforts must go beyond infrastructure and funding. 'Real digitalisation happens when communities possess strong digital literacy and the confidence to use technology in their daily lives,' he said. The BDI @ Sarawak event, jointly organised by Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment Sarawak (MINTRED), and SDEC, serves as a strategic platform to promote digitalisation, especially among micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Julaihi commended MDEC, MINTRED, SDEC, and all partners involved in the initiative, expressing hope that the programme would serve as a catalyst for further digital transformation across Sarawak. He underscored the importance of grassroots-level engagement and capacity building, pointing to training programmes conducted by SDEC based on community needs. 'Today's initiative is the beginning of a larger movement — one to ensure that every MSME in Sarawak is given equal opportunity to thrive in a fast-paced digital economy. 'Our goal is to create an inclusive, sustainable and competitive digital landscape — not just for today, but for future generations,' he added. Also present were Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong and Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) head of digital adoption Wan Murdani Wan Mohamad.
Borneo Post
06-07-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Ugak: Embrace digital tools in worship, strengthen religious unity
Daniel (third left) presents a memento to Wilson, witnessed by others. MIRI (July 6): The rapid development of the digital world today should be embraced positively, not only for daily needs but also in religious practices and the management of places of worship, said Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong. Ugak said the public can utilise today's digital technologies to manage their places of worship more systematically, while also strengthening community bonds through healthy communication among themselves and with followers of other religions. 'Technology can be used to connect everyone, regardless of religious background. I believe that digital technology is a tool that can be used for good, and it should be harnessed to benefit the wider community, including the Christian community. 'For example, using kiosks to register church attendance or QR codes for donations to churches or relevant religious activities,' he said during a charity dinner held to raise funds in conjunction with the 37th anniversary celebration of the Miri City Iban Methodist Church last night. Ugak added that Sarawak continues to set a positive example for the rest of the country when in terms of racial and religious harmony. 'The diversity of ethnicities and beliefs in this state is not only respected but also celebrated in daily life. This is the uniqueness of Sarawak that we must preserve and pass on to future generations. 'I would also like to express my appreciation to the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) Sarawak, which continues to play a vital role in supporting and empowering non-Muslim religious institutions in the state,' he said. Ugak added that with the various initiatives and assistance provided, Unifor demonstrates the Sarawak government's commitment to ensuring that all houses of worship, including the Miri City Iban Methodist Church, receive the necessary support to function effectively as centres of worship and welfare. He also reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting and respecting freedom of religion, including the right of the Christian community to practise their faith freely. 'In this spirit, I would like to thank the Miri City Iban Methodist Church and all its congregation members who continue to play an active role in contributing to community development, particularly in providing support and welfare to those in need. 'I deeply appreciate the role of religion, including Christianity, in nurturing good values within our society. The teachings of love, humility, and mutual assistance found in Christianity are essential foundations for our collective well-being,' he said. Also present were Political Secretary to the Premier of Sarawak Pandang Semat, Sarawak Iban Annual Conference (SIAC) president Rev Bonnie Sedau and his wife Rev Yan Foon Peng, Bintulu Iban Methodist Church head Rev Lembai Banyang, Miri City Iban Methodist Church supervising pastor Rev Breindstein Kulleh, Miri City Iban Methodist Church head Jambi Jawat, Miri City Iban Methodist Church executive committee chairman Dominic Untam, and organising chairman Daniel Liman.
The Sun
29-06-2025
- Politics
- The Sun
Deputy digital minister urges faster AI laws to combat fraud
SHAH ALAM: Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong has called for urgent legislation to regulate artificial intelligence (AI), citing its increasing misuse in fraudulent activities. He revealed that AI-related crimes have caused an estimated RM5 billion in global losses between 2020 and 2024. Speaking at the Gawai Kitai Ngiling Bidai 2025 celebration, Ugak stressed the need for stricter controls and penalties to deter AI misuse. 'I expect the AI legislation to be tabled this year so that we can tighten control and outline appropriate penalties for those who misuse this technology,' he said. The minister referenced recent incidents involving high-profile figures, including former Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani and Johor Police Chief Datuk M Kumar S Muthuvelu. Both officials denied involvement in viral AI-generated videos depicting them receiving aid from an individual claiming to be a 'Datuk'. To combat such threats, the ministry is intensifying public awareness efforts through the Digital Malaysia Tour programme. Ugak noted his visits to Sabah, Kapit in Sarawak, and Penang to educate rural communities on AI fraud tactics. Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo previously stated that a comprehensive report on AI regulations would be submitted by the end of June.
The Sun
29-06-2025
- Politics
- The Sun
Malaysia deputy minister urges faster AI laws to combat fraud
SHAH ALAM: Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong has called for urgent legislation to regulate artificial intelligence (AI), citing its increasing misuse in fraudulent activities. He revealed that AI-related crimes have caused an estimated RM5 billion in global losses between 2020 and 2024. Speaking at the Gawai Kitai Ngiling Bidai 2025 celebration, Ugak stressed the need for stricter controls and penalties to deter AI misuse. 'I expect the AI legislation to be tabled this year so that we can tighten control and outline appropriate penalties for those who misuse this technology,' he said. The minister referenced recent incidents involving high-profile figures, including former Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani and Johor Police Chief Datuk M Kumar S Muthuvelu. Both officials denied involvement in viral AI-generated videos depicting them receiving aid from an individual claiming to be a 'Datuk'. To combat such threats, the ministry is intensifying public awareness efforts through the Digital Malaysia Tour programme. Ugak noted his visits to Sabah, Kapit in Sarawak, and Penang to educate rural communities on AI fraud tactics. Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo previously stated that a comprehensive report on AI regulations would be submitted by the end of June.
