With the launch of the Future Skills for All (FS4A) programme in Sarawak, secondary school students, teachers and the state district education officers will be equipped with essential digital skills needed for the community to thrive in a fast-evolving digital economy. The comprehensive digital education programme is conducted in collaboration between ARUS Academy, CelcomDigi Berhad (CelcomDigi), Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), UNICEF Malaysia, and the Sarawak State Government and Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC).

FS4A courses, which are available via online, in-person workshops, and offline kits, are meticulously aligned with the national curriculum for Asas Sains Komputer and Sains Komputer. Kickstarting the initiative in central Sarawak, the programme has successfully trained 237 students, 79 teachers, and 11 district education officers, and will be expanded to other parts of the state next year. 

The programme has shown preliminary results as students presented some notable ideas using skills in HTML, python and SQL. The ideas include the development of a website to streamline transport bookings in Kapit, allowing users to efficiently plan their travels ahead, as well as an e-commerce website to promote the nutritional benefits of dabai, an exotic fruit in Sarawak, and other dabai related products.

“Coding is undoubtedly an important asset for students as digital skills become the fundamental of future workforce. FS4A modules are available offline and in sign language, which makes coding language more accessible and inclusive for all students including those in the rural and remote areas, underserved communities and the differently abled. When access to digital learning expands to include more segments of the society, it will enhance participation and representation towards shaping an inclusive digital society,” said Philip Ling, Head of Sustainability.

“The FS4A programme is a testament to MDEC’s dedication to bridging the digital divide and fostering innovation across Malaysia. By equipping our communities with these essential skills, we are not only empowering individuals but also driving the socio-economic development of regions like Central Sarawak. The inclusion of the MyDigitalMaker initiative within this programme aligns seamlessly with the national strategic initiative, Malaysia Digital (MD), further strengthens our commitment to nurturing young digital talents and fostering a culture of creativity and problem-solving,” said Datuk Ts. Mahadhir Aziz, CEO of MDEC. 

FS4A programme began in 2020, providing students and teachers with access to an online course featuring instructional videos, online notes, and quizzes aligned with the national syllabus. The programme expanded its reach by developing accessible learning content for the deaf community, incorporating Malaysian Sign Language interpretation into all lesson videos. Additionally, the programme introduced an offline kit, enabling coding education in areas without internet access or digital devices. These kits include card games designed to teach coding concepts in an engaging and interactive manner, serving as supplementary tools for teachers.

With over 37,000 students and 4,700 teachers across Malaysia engaging with the FS4A online learning platform, the programme is now extending its impact through its offline kits and digital skills workshops, tailored to meet community needs.

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