Technology, local identities need to go together in early education

KUCHING, 25 September: The advancement of technology and global connectivity must go hand in hand with the preservation of culture and local identity in early childhood education development in Sarawak.

Sarawak Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said that children should be prepared for a future driven by technology, innovation and change while at the same time understanding their origins, culture and identity.

He said that international engagement does not mean Sarawak should sacrifice its identity, instead younger generations need to have confidence to compete globally based on Sarawak's identity.

"Technology will change but human quality will remain important. The culture, cultural diversity and language of Sarawak will remain our main strength.

"Our children should grow up knowing who they are, understanding where they come from and respecting the cultures and identities of other races", he said as he was addressing the inauguration of the Sarawak International Pre-School Convention (SPIC) 2026 here today.

Awang Tengah said that the convention also gives Sarawak a space to learn about the experiences and knowledge related to early childhood education from around the world.

At the same time, he said, Sarawak has unique experiences that can be shared internationally, especially with regard to the diversity of cultures, languages and ways of life of society.

He said the experience could be a foundation for adapting early childhood education approaches to local needs, as well as developing own solutions to strengthen the sector.

"The exchange of knowledge through this convention is expected to contribute to better policies, stronger institutions, quality education, meaningful research and closer cooperation", he said.