BETONG – Students in Sarawak have been reminded to use digital learning applications and artificial intelligence (AI) responsibly, with emphasis placed on balancing technology with personal effort in their pursuit of knowledge.
Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu highlighted the importance of discipline and preparation during the Semesta Good Seeds (2B) Programme 2026, held at Tan Sri Jabu Hall, SMK St Augustine Betong.
He cautioned against overdependence on digital tools, stressing that students must also cultivate their own learning experiences.
The Layar Assemblyman noted that candidates sitting for the Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) in 2026 have fewer than 250 days before the examination begins.
He urged them to plan carefully, set clear goals and maintain consistency in their studies. “Every day is very meaningful.
If we plan well, set goals and are disciplined, success will be easier to achieve. Don’t wait until the last minute. Prepare an umbrella before it rains,” he said.
Parents were also called upon to play a proactive role in supporting their children during this crucial period.
Datuk Gerald likened the role of teachers, parents and the wider community to “fertiliser and water” that nurture young learners, enabling them to grow into strong individuals who contribute positively to society.
Principal of SMK St Augustine Betong, Ujai Sambau, explained that this year marked the sixth edition of the Semesta Good Seeds (2B) Programme.
The initiative included parenting talks, performance dialogues, parent-teacher consensus sessions, reporting exercises and the setting of academic targets for students.
The programme’s highlight was the recitation of the Jaya Cerah 064 Pledge, alongside the launch of the CERAH064 Programme and the Sarawak Education Enhancement Programme (SEEP).
These initiatives aim to strengthen student performance and foster collaboration between schools, parents and the community.
Attendees included Form 5 students and their parents, as well as senior education officials. Among those present were the Deputy Director of the Sarawak State Education Department (School Management Sector), representing Education Director Dr Les Anak Met, Betong Division Resident Representative Amir Redzuan Mohamad, Betong District Education Officer Benson Damu, Betong District Representative Christina Peter, and the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) President of SMK St Augustine Betong, Counsellor Horace Entoi.
The event reflects Sarawak’s broader efforts to prepare its younger generation for a future shaped by digital innovation and AI.
State leaders have consistently emphasised the importance of science, technology and discipline in education, ensuring that students are equipped not only with modern tools but also with resilience and strong values.
