Joniston observing the participants of the ICT workshop programme.
KIULU: Grassroots and community leaders should have a firm grasp of information and communication technologies (ICT) to avoid falling behind and missing out on the benefits of the digital age, said Kiulu Assemblyman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.
As technology plays an ever-growing role in modern society, he said they should work to harmonise their efforts with ICT to promote community involvement and productivity.
“The emergence of new technologies has brought about an era in which the pace of information transfer is exceptionally rapid. Village heads and members of the Village Development and Security Committee must make an effort to become knowledgeable in ICT and acquire new skills.
“Leaders need to be adaptable and resourceful when carrying out duty because in today’s world, finding solutions to problems typically involves using some form of digital technology, which necessitates creativity and invention,” he said at the ICT workshop programme at Kampung Simpangan here yesterday.
Funded by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation and conducted by the ICT tutors from AMC College, the workshop was attended by some 50 youths as well as some elderly people.
In light of this, Joniston, who is also Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister, has given his word that he will invest in the advancement of ICT for community leaders in his constituency by utilising his “touch point” allocation and this would also include church elders.
With the rise of social media and other digital communication tools, he said ICT-savvy leaders can more easily communicate with members of their community, share information, and build relationships.
“We must also look at ICT as a way to enhance advocacy whereby ICT-savvy leaders can use digital platforms to engage with policymakers, raise awareness about important issues, and advocate for change.
“Competence in ICT can also assist community leaders in developing new economic opportunities for their community. Digital platforms can promote entrepreneurship, connect local businesses with prospective customers, and attract new investors to the community.
“This should be the way forward for leaders to address the community’s needs and challenges, to encourage greater participation from community members in decision-making processes, and to gather input via online platforms so the community feels invested in their future,” he said.
