By Olivia Miwil - January 26, 2021 @ 3:40pm
KOTA KINABALU: The federal government should expand the National Digital Network (Jendela) infrastructure plan to improve internet connectivity in more areas in Sabah.
Cuepacs deputy chairman Hussin Basir said there have been daily reports on students facing problems accessing the internet, especially in the state's rural areas.
"It has become very common lately, due to the study from a home programme initiated by the Education Ministry given the current Covid-19 pandemic.
"Difficulties in obtaining the internet is not new in Sabah and despite the various complaints by telecommunication customers all these years, the situation remains unresolved," he said in a statement.
Hussin, who is also Sabah Government Teachers Union president, said during this pandemic, a good internet line is an important basic necessity which would benefit students.
He added that good internet facilities should come with good hardware support.
"Therefore, the government should provide financial aid for families especially those having a big number of school-going children.
"We would like to suggest that the government identify and provide laptops or computers equipped with the necessary tools and software for these families.
"There is no option but for the government to act on this. We are appreciative of the various assistance given to healthcare workers but it's time for us to also look into the needs of the other important segment of the working community."
Last year, the state Education Department said about 52 per cent of students in the state did not have access to the internet, smartphones, computers or mobile gadgets required to participate in online classes.
It was reported on Monday that an RM150 million Cerdik initiative, which is under the 2021 Budget, is set to kick-off next month.
The initiative will provide digital access comprising laptops, tablets, and data connectivity to students from lower-income families.
Meanwhile, on teachers and students going back to school in preparation for annual examinations, Hussin said the standard operating procedures need to be tightened.
"Both students and teachers must adhere strictly to the SOP as imposed to avoid any school (coronavirus) cluster.
"I also would like to remind members to be always aware of the fact that we bear a big responsibility to be good role models for our students and the community as a whole."
As of yesterday, 64 SPM students from SMK Tulid hostels in Keningau were sent to a quarantine centre following close contacts with an infected teacher.
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