KUCHING: Reading does not only provide knowledge. It can also give readers richer and more meaningful lives. This was pointed out by Chief Minister, Datuk Patinggi (Dr) Abang Johari Tun Openg in his speech at the “Let’s Read Together for 10 Minutes” programme at the State Library here yesterday.
Johari’s speech was read by Minister of Education, Science, and Technological Research, Dato Sri Michael Manyin Jawong.
“With no reading culture instilled into us, it will be difficult to gain knowledge which is always growing and expanding.
“Through reading, readers can also go back into the past and “travel” all over the world without leaving their homes.
“Other than that, readers will also be able to feel many emotions through the characters in the books that they read,” he said.
The Chief Minister added that in the era of digital economy, it was also important to increase one’s knowledge in all things related to ICT.
“We have to do this so that we won’t be left behind in the development of digital economy.
“Reading will help us to learn about ICT easier and if we don’t understand, we can ask those who are more knowledgable in the subject matter,” he said.
At the same time, Johari also warned that the use of ICT, especially the Internet, could bring about problems such as the spreading of fake news through the social media. “There are individuals who use the social media to threaten the peace and unity of the people by spreading sensitive issues.
“In addition to that, it is also known that cyber crimes are spreading and there are extemist groups who use the social media to seek out potential recruits.
“Therefore, we, as Sarawakians, should know our responsibilities as digital citizens and use ICT for good things,” he said.
The event also saw the launching of the Sarawak Library Journal which encouraged professionals and practitioners, particularly from the region, to document their findings and share their expertise, specialities and work experiences.
