BINTULU: In todays rapidly evolving digital era, digital skills are no longer an option but a necessity, said Consortium of Borneo Universities (KUUB) secretary-general Fakhzan Buang.

In this regard, he pointed out that Universiti Putra Malaysia Bintulu Campus (UPMKB), as a progressive educational institution, is committed to providing a development platform for students to acquire relevant skills and build global competitiveness.

The universitys Youth Leadership and Entrepreneurship (YLE) deputy chairman highlighted this when officiating at the closing of the International Putra Bakti @ Youth Digital 2025 programme on Wednesday.

This programme, he said, serves as a meaningful initiative in strengthening youth involvement in digital technology, innovation, and holistic leadership development.

Through this programme, participants gain comprehensive exposure to cutting-edge technology applications, equipping them to tackle contemporary challenges effectively, added Fakhzan.

The programme was organised in collaboration with Tabung Ekonomi Gagasan Anak Sarawak (Tegas), KUUB, and YLE.

Held at Tegas Digital Innovation Hub Bintulu, the two-day hybrid event received encouraging response from 150 participants, including those from Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Nigeria, and China.

Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) Co-Curriculum and Student Development Centre director Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Mursyid Arshad delivered his keynote address titled The Role of AI in Youth-Adult Partnership for Digital Literacy.

In his address, he emphasised on the importance of artificial intelligence in strengthening the relationship between youth and adults to enhance digital literacy among young people.

Additionally, the seminar featured six main sessions with expert speakers in their respective fields.

There were also various Group Training Activities (LDK) designed to test participants creativity and entrepreneurial skills, where participants were given the opportunity to apply their knowledge through interactive and engaging activities.

Shakinah Asniza Mortadza, who spoke on behalf of Tegas, highlighted that digitaltechnology mastery is crucial in building a competitive workforce in todays challenging globalised era.

Tegas believes that technological advancements are the key catalysts in realising the nations aspiration to produce competitive and innovative young leaders.

Programmes like this provide golden opportunities for participants to gain knowledge, sharpen their skills, and strengthen their digital competencies, which are highly needed in todays world, she added.

Beyond technology, the programme also provided a space for professional networking among youths from different countries.

This cross-cultural interaction not only fosters unity and mutual respect, but also creates longterm relationships beneficial for future collaboration.

Date of Input: 13/03/2025 | lanz