PAITAN, Dec 20, 2025 – The Sabah Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation ministry (KPSTI) has announced plans to aggressively expand internet connectivity to rural and remote schools starting next year, ensuring that students in underserved areas are not left behind in the digital age.
The State Minister Datuk James Ratib said that this initiative is a critical step in bridging the digital divide and providing equal educational opportunities for all Sabahan children.
Speaking at a Christmas and New Year celebration in the Paitan district on Saturday, the Minister revealed that substantial progress has already been made this year.
300 Schools Connected: Throughout 2025, approximately 300 schools across Sabah were equipped with Starlink satellite devices. These units provide high-speed internet to facilitate modern teaching and learning processes.
Community Integration: Beyond schools, the Minister proposed expanding Starlink services to local communities through the e-Desa initiative, targeting villages that currently lack any form of cellular or broadband coverage.
"We no longer want to see students struggling to find an internet signal. This effort will be continuous and expanded systematically to ensure no one is sidelined from digital education," said Datuk James.
Uplifting Paitan and Sugut
James, who is also the Sugut assemblyman addressed the socio-economic challenges facing the region. Noting that Sugut is currently listed among the 10 poorest areas in the country, he pledged to make its development a top priority.
"My goal is to lead Paitan and Sugut out of the poverty line within the next five years," he stated, while also expressing his gratitude to the local community for their renewed mandate in the recent state election.
The event, which was also attended by Paitan District Officer Joloning Joe Majambu and Rev. Justin Sansalu representing the local churches, served as a platform to highlight Sabah’s unique social harmony.
Rev. Justin Sansalu noted that this year's Christmas theme focuses on universal values such as peace, love, and hope.
Joloning Joe Majambu added that the joint celebration reflects the maturity and mutual respect shared by the diverse ethnic and religious groups in Paitan.
The Ministry’s commitment to technology and education, coupled with local development plans, signals a major push toward transforming Sabah’s interior into a more connected and prosperous region.
Comments
Post a Comment