(Eastern Times; July 29, 2008)

SEBANGAN: Another Internet Access Center (IAC) commenced business last month in Sebangan, Simunjan.

The centre owned and operated by Mohammad Azhar Semawi, age 22, is also known as the Rural ICT Guided Home-based Technopreneur Programme (RIGHT) programme. Mohammad Azhar Semawi, aged 22.

RIGHT is a social development programme initiated by Sarawak Information Systems Sdn Bhd (SAINS) in concert with the State Ministry of Rural Development.

The programme which started field-testing in 2005, is in support of the state government's intention to bridge the rural urban digital divide on a sustainable basis.

In helping to narrow this gap, the programme trains rural youths to adopt and use ICT services as an income generation opportunity in rural areas. The candidates were given six months training and were exposed to various aspects of ICT operations in SAINS.

This is the second Internet Access Centre related to the RIGHT programme. The first IAC started in Betong in October 2007 by another ICT graduate, Shukor Mahmud, aged 28, from Kampung Baru Hulu, Betong.

The programme will continue to develop Technopreneurs in other rural districts of Lawas, Limbang, Sibu, Asajaya, Serian, Samarahan, Padawan, Merapok, Matu, Saratok and many more to come.

"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.

Teo Tien Hiong, CEO of Sarawak Information Systems Sdn Bhd (SAINS) together with Hamsein Atar, Assistant Principal Secretary for Ministry of Rural Development Hamsein Atar were in Sebangan to officiate the opening of the IAC and to congratulate Azhar for his endeavour.

SAINS had earlier contributed seven re-conditioned personal computers and a printer to assist Mohammad Azhar at his centre. The centre also provides computer accessories, besides assisting users with internet skills and office automation. With his creativity, Azhar also provides services such as designing wedding cards and photo printing for the villagers.

According to Azhar, the centre operates from 9am to 8pm everyday 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 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.

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