KOTA KINABALU: Don't let technology get the best of you.
That is the advice of Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Salleh Said Keruak to Malaysian youth.
He said that in a world where social media is king, youngsters are becoming too dependent on technology to communicate with each other.
Speaking to Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) students, Salleh advised youngsters to use their time while pursuing their higher education to grow and become wiser, especially when it comes to using technology in their everyday lives.
"Don't go back to your hometown with the same level of thinking; for example, learn to evaluate before believing or forwarding viral posts; or respect differences of opinions and handle them calmly," he said.
Salleh added that with Malaysia Day set to be celebrated tomorrow, citizens must show that they can unite and not be divided by their differences.
"Do not do something that will make future generations lose respect for us when they look back (on history); don't get easily riled up or emotional," he reasoned.
Salleh said this after witnessing the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between UMS and Jabatan Penyiaran Malaysia (RTM) here, which is an extension to an agreement inked between the two parties in 2006.
Salleh also said that the government continues to engage in consultation with youths to get their feedback on what they would like the future to be.
"The fact is, many (national development) plans might not be achieved or rolled out during current leaders' time, but (certainly) during the time of future generations.
"Youngsters therefore need to take into account the ‘borderless world’ and the opportunities it offers.
"For example, expanding businesses – and you can see how courier services like Pos Laju are now going strong, driven by online businesses (e-commerce).
"It’s the same whether you want to become a district officer, a (university) vice-chancellor or a doctor – the conditions would not be the same like they are now, and you need to think ahead to adapt," he explained.
The MoU signing, witnessed by Salleh, was conducted between UMS vice-chancellor Prof Dr D Kamarudin D Mudin and RTM director-general Datuk Abu Bakar Ab Rahim at the university’s campus here.
The inked document aims to expand collaboration in broadcasting and reporting, in particular, training and courses, involving exchanges of students and staff of both parties.
Salleh later launched the basic Bajau Sama language dictionary, which was initiated by the Kota Belud Bajau Sama Language and Culture Association.