BETONG: Students are encouraged to utilise educational digital applications and Artificial Intelligence (AI) wisely as tools to assist in their learning.

However, Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu reminded students not to rely entirely on such applications, instead emphasising that they should put in the effort and experience the process of seeking knowledge firsthand.

Datuk Gerald said this during the SEMESTA 2026 Good Seed (2B) Programme held at the Tan Sri Jabu Hall, SMK St Augustine Betong, on Friday.

In his speech, the Layar Assemblyman also reminded the 2026 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) candidates that they now have fewer than 250 days to make thorough preparations before the examinations begin.

“Every day is meaningful. If we plan well, set goals, and remain disciplined, success will be easier to achieve. Do not wait until the last minute. Prepare the umbrella before it rains,” he said.

In this regard, he urged parents to play an active role in ensuring their children constantly receive moral support, monitoring, and continuous encouragement throughout this critical period.

“Teachers, parents, and the community are like fertiliser and water to the seeds planted. If cared for well, those seeds will grow into sturdy trees that benefit everyone,” he stated.

Meanwhile, the Principal of SMK St Augustine Betong, Ujai Sambau, informed that this year marks the sixth edition of the SEMESTA Good Seed (2B) Programme.

He noted that the programme's content included parenting talks, performance dialogues, parent-teacher collaboration programmes, reporting sessions, and the setting of students' academic targets.

The highlight of the programme featured the Ikrar Jaya Cerah 064 pledge recital, the launch of the CERAH064 Programme, and the launch of the Sarawak Education Enhancement Programme (SEEP).

The programme was attended by Form 5 students and parents from the school.

Also present were the Deputy Director (School Management Sector) of the Sarawak State Education Department representing the State Education Director Dr Les Anak Met, representative of the Betong Divisional Resident Amir Redzuan Mohamad, representative of the Betong District Education Officer
Benson Damu, representative of the Betong District Officer Christina Peter and the PTA Chairperson of SMK St Augustine Betong Councillor Horace Entoi. — UKASnews

Translator: Ryan Lim