In today’s digital age, access to education is more important than ever. However, not all students have the necessary tools to engage in online learning, especially those in remote areas. Recognizing this challenge, Astro Kasih, the CSR arm of Astro, has taken a proactive step towards bridging the digital divide by donating 30 laptops to 3 schools in Sabah and Sarawak. This initiative is part of Astro Kasih’s commitment to lifelong learning and making education accessible for students nationwide.
The schools that benefited from this donation are SK Magandai in Kota Marudu, Sabah, SK Malinsau in Ranau, Sabah, and SK Sungai Paku in Kapit, Sarawak. These laptops will enable teachers and students in these remote areas to access online education content, especially during the disruption in classroom learning caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Tammy Toh, Director of Group Marketing and Communications at Astro, emphasized the importance of equal access to education for all. Astro has invested RM120 million in learning content over the past 10 years, with initiatives such as Astro Tutor TV and the Upped website, which offers a wide range of educational videos and STEM programmes.
The headmasters of the beneficiary schools expressed their gratitude for Astro’s donation. Jairon bin Maiba, Headmaster of SK Magandai, highlighted the significance of the laptops in overcoming the limitations of accessibility in rural areas. Timbang anak Tuan, Headmaster of SK Sungai Paku, mentioned the excitement among teachers to introduce online and interactive education content in their teaching. Jamain B. Simban @ Abd. Halim, Headmaster of SK Malinsau, shared his teachers‘ intention to use the laptops to help students catch up on their studies once they return to the classroom after the current Movement Control Order (MCO).
Astro Kasih has been supporting these schools since 2012 through various initiatives, including building and maintaining hostels, providing the Kampus Astro learning system, hosting exam revision workshops, and community work such as health examinations. During the pandemic, Astro Kasih also distributed revision books to students and provided food supplies and face masks to families in need. This holistic approach to education and community support demonstrates Astro Kasih’s commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of students and their families in remote areas.
In conclusion, Astro Kasih’s donation of laptops to schools in Sabah and Sarawak is a commendable effort towards bridging the digital divide and ensuring that all students have equal access to education. By providing the necessary tools for online learning, Astro Kasih is empowering teachers and students in remote areas to continue their education despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. This initiative not only supports academic growth but also fosters a sense of community and care among students and their families.