LETTERS: Digital technology makes our lives easier. It serves as a catalyst for economic growth, and it has cushioned the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on the economy and society.
Malaysia is breaking its back to achieve developed nation status. So digital technology is of the utmost importance to ensure that we are not building castles in the air.
Students can acquire many skills from the Internet, including communication skills in foreign languages, such as Mandarin, Arabic, Japanese.
That is the reason why some people have mastered several languages from the Internet only.
However, despite the advantages, we should be aware of some negatives.
We have to weigh the pros and cons, especially when allowing children to use technology. They are vulnerable and can fall prey to the dark side of it.
The reopening of more economic sectors suggests that most parents are back at the workplace. They have a lot on their plate but they must not neglect their children.
Parents should monitor their children's use of social media platforms.
There have been rape cases involving minors who met people on social media.
Parents should take an interest in their children's routine and know who their friends are.
Imposing a curfew and restricting children's activities can be a safety measure.
Children must be reprimanded for doing something wrong and praised for doing something good.
As the saying goes, "spare the rod, spoil the child."
Parents should also not indulge their children, letting them do anything they want.
DR MOHD SHAHIDAN SHAARI
Faculty of Applied
and Human Sciences
Universiti Malaysia Perlis
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times