(Borneo Post; July 29, 2008)

SIMUNJAN: A young graduate of Rural ICT Guided Home-based Technoprenuer has started an Internet Access Centre (IAC) in Sebangan here last month.

The first IAC was set up in Betong last year.

The Sebangan IAC, is owned and operated by 22 year old, Mohammad Azhar Semawi.

The RIGHT programme is a social development programme initiated by Sarawak Information Systems Sdn Bhd (SAINS), in collaboration with the Ministry of Rural Development, according to a press release yesterday.

The programme, which started field-testing in 2005, is in support of the aim of the State Government to bridge the rural-urban digital divide on a sustainable basis.

In helping to narrow this gab, the programme aims to train rural youths by providing ICT services as an income-generating opportunity and in support of ICT adoption among the rural communities.

The candidates would be given six months of training and would also be exposed to various aspects of ICT operations in SAINS.

The programme will continue to develop technopreneurs in rural districts of Lawas, Limbang, Sibu, Asajaya, Serian, Samarahan, Padawan, Merapok, Matu and Saratok.

"I really thank SAINS for supporting me and providing the facilities to set up this business. I am very satisfied with what I have today and it is always my desire to start this business for the villagers", Azhar said.

SAINS CEO, Teo Tien Hiong and Assistant Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Rural Development Hamsein Atar were in Sebangan to officiate at the opening.

They congratulated Azhar for his endeavour and offered him support in his commitment to succeed.

SAINS had earlier contributed seven re-conditioned personal computers and a printer to assist Azhar at the centre.

The centre provides computer repairs, scanning, photocopying and printing services, selling computer accessories, besides assisting users in Internet skills and office automation.

With his creativity, Azhar also provides services such as designing wedding cards and photo printing for the villagers. The centre operates from 9am to 8pm daily and most of his customers are students, teenagers and teachers.

He is able to start his business with little cost and is now earning about RM700 per month.

Teo was especially happy and excited to see first hand Azhar's thriving business and also because the centre was well utilised.

"This gives substance and meaning to the RIGHT programme that we are able to transform rural youth like Mohammad Azhar into enterprising and self-sustaining role model for narrowing the digital divide in rural communities through the RIGHT programme", Teo said.

Azhar's centre is the second of IAC related RIGHT programme.

The first IAC set up in Betong in October 2007 was initiated by another graduate, Shukor Mahmud, 28, from Kampung Baru Hulu, Betong.

For more information on RIGHT programme, members of the public are advised to visit www.right.sarawak.gov.my