IPOH, Sept 30 (Bernama) -- The Digital Ministry continues its effort to cultivate online literacy at the community level through its Northern Zone Minggu Digital Kementerian Digital 2026 (MDKD2026) programme held at the Teluk Intan Town Hall today.
The Digital Ministry said in a statement that the nationwide phased implementation of MDKD2026 aims to bring the digital agenda closer to the public.
"For the programme in Teluk Intan, special focus is given to senior citizens, micro-entrepreneurs, and small businesses through activities that enhance digital literacy, raise awareness of online scams, promote business digital platforms, and provide early exposure to the safe and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
"The execution of this programme also received support from the Teluk Intan Municipal Council (MPTI) as a strategic partner in mobilising and instilling digital awareness among the local community," the statement read.
The programme was officiated by the Digital Ministry’s deputy secretary-general (Digital Development), MA Sivanesan, and was also attended by MPTI president Mohd Faizal Md Kasim.
In his speech, Sivanesan said online scam cases are increasingly targeting vulnerable groups, particularly senior citizens.
As such, he said through MDKD2026, the Digital Ministry wants to ensure the public is not only digitally literate but also able to protect themselves and their families from such threats while using technology to improve their well-being and economic opportunities.
The day-long MDKD2026 provided exposure to the public regarding online scam methods and ways to protect personal and financial information. It also introduced local entrepreneurs to content creation techniques and the use of digital platforms for marketing and e-commerce.
In addition, the public learned the basics and potential of AI, along with guidelines for using the technology safely, ethically, and responsibly.
The statement added that various agencies and strategic partners provided exhibitions and direct advisory services regarding the digital ecosystem to the Teluk Intan community through MDKD2026. This included the National Digital Department, Personal Data Protection Department, Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation, MYNIC Berhad, MyDIGITAL Corporation, Digital Nasional Berhad, GovTech Malaysia, AI Malaysia Berhad, MyDigital ID, MPTI, Digital Perak, Telekom Malaysia Berhad, and MYFutureJobs.
The involvement of various agencies in MDKD2026 allows the public to get direct information and advisory services and learn about digital initiatives they can use daily.
The statement also said that MDKD2026 included community activities such as the Rahmah Sales Programme, an aerobics session, and a colouring contest for kindergarten children.
"This approach turns MDKD2026 Teluk Intan into a community interaction platform covering digital literacy, awareness of safe technology use, economic digitalisation, and community affairs.
"The MADANI Government remains committed to strengthening the public's literacy and confidence in using technology, including preparing the community to leverage emerging technologies like AI safely and ethically, subsequently driving Malaysia's transformation towards AI Nation 2030," said the statement.
-- BERNAMA