MIRI – Students should use artificial intelligence (AI) to support their learning rather than rely on it as a substitute for independent thinking, Miri Mayor and Pujut assemblyman Adam Yii Siew Sang has said.
Speaking at the Majlis Gemilang Ilmu Form 5 Year 2026 at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Dato Permaisuri in Miri on Thursday, Yii stressed that students should use AI ethically and responsibly to strengthen their understanding, critical thinking and creativity.
He said the technology should complement the learning process instead of becoming a shortcut to academic achievement. Students, he added, should continue making the effort to understand subjects in depth rather than depending on AI-generated answers to complete their work.
The remarks come as AI tools become increasingly relevant to education, offering students new ways to access information, explore concepts and assist with academic tasks. However, their use also raises questions about independent learning, the reliability of generated information and the importance of ensuring that students develop their own analytical skills.
Responsible use of these tools requires students to understand the material they study, assess information critically and take ownership of their academic work. AI can assist with learning activities, but it does not replace the effort needed to build knowledge and develop problem-solving abilities.
Yii also highlighted the need to prepare students for challenges beyond examinations, saying that future readiness should not be measured solely through academic results. Mental well-being, character development and the ability to cope with difficulties are also important aspects of students’ development.
His remarks placed broader emphasis on preparing young people for life after secondary school, where personal resilience, sound judgement and adaptability can be as important as formal qualifications. A balanced approach to education, he indicated, should therefore consider both academic progress and students’ overall well-being.
School safety was another issue raised during the event, with Yii stressing the importance of creating an environment in which students feel protected and included. He said teachers, parents and the wider community all have a role to play in addressing bullying, cyber harassment and the misuse of social media.
Such issues can extend beyond the classroom, particularly when online interactions affect relationships among students or follow them into their daily school lives. Cooperation between schools, families and communities is therefore important in identifying concerns and responding to incidents appropriately.
A safe and inclusive school environment also provides students with the opportunity to concentrate on their studies and participate in school activities without fear of intimidation or harassment. Addressing harmful behaviour requires attention not only to incidents themselves but also to the wider culture of respect and responsibility within the school community.
With Form 5 students preparing for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination, Yii advised candidates to organise their revision systematically and plan their studies carefully. A structured approach can help students manage their workload, identify areas that require additional attention and make effective use of the time available before their examinations.
He also encouraged students to consider a range of educational and career opportunities rather than limiting their plans to a single pathway. Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) was among the options highlighted for students exploring their next steps after secondary school.
TVET provides an alternative route for those interested in technical knowledge and practical skills, while further academic study remains another possible direction for school leavers. Understanding the available options can help students make decisions that reflect their interests, abilities and longer-term career goals.
The advice at the school event brought together several aspects of student preparation, including responsible technology use, examination planning, personal development and awareness of future opportunities. For Form 5 candidates, the message was to approach their studies with discipline while recognising that education also involves developing the skills and judgement needed beyond the classroom. â Sarawak Daily
