Yayasan PETRONAS Launches Community Initiative for Improved Internet Connectivity at SMK Wallace Bay

TAWAU, 2 Aug 2024 – Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Wallace Bay in Pulau Sebatik, off here, is poised to receive improved internet connectivity, benefiting up to 25 teachers and 293 students, under a community initiative by Yayasan PETRONAS.

The initiative aims to provide improved internet connectivity at the school and in future, extend it to the broader and nearby communities on the island.

State Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation Datuk Dr Mohd Arifin Mohd Arif launched the initiative today, accompanied by PETRONAS Senior Vice President of Malaysia Petroleum Management Datuk Ir Bacho Pilong, underscoring the significance of improved internet connectivity at the school.

Datuk Dr Mohd Arifin said, “Today marks a significant milestone for SMK Wallace Bay as it is now equipped with improved internet connectivity. This will undoubtedly open new horizons for the students, providing them with invaluable resources and opportunities for a brighter future. I am happy to note that this initiative is also in line with my ministry’s efforts in expanding internet access and coverage in Sabah, and minimising digital divide.”

Datuk Ir Bacho said, “Education is crucial for securing a better future. With the rapid advancement of technology, the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education cannot be overstated. We believe that digital connectivity can enhance students' learning experiences and support teachers in their educational efforts. This is one of PETRONAS’ initiatives to ensure we progress collectively as a nation.”

The event also saw Torch One, part of the nationwide PETRONAS 50 Homecoming journey, making a stop at the school, honouring the indomitable spirit to overcome challenges and strive for success as exemplified by Datuk Ir Bacho himself, a native of Pulau Sebatik.

SMK Wallace Bay is the final stop for the journey in Sabah before continuing to Sarawak.

The school is also home to Azrinsyah Abdul Aziz, a teacher enrolled in Program Duta Guru, a flagship education programme by Yayasan PETRONAS, that aims to strengthen the capabilities of 4,500 STEM teachers nationwide, serving schools with a majority of underserved students, by 2030.

“Through Yayasan PETRONAS we are committed to supporting educators like Cikgu Azrinsyah at SMK Wallace Bay, who are dedicated in nurturing the next generation of leaders and problem solvers,” Datuk Ir Bacho added.

The community internet initiative comes as part of Yayasan PETRONAS’ commitment to uplifting communities across Malaysia via its three pillars – Education, Community Well-being and Development, and Environment.

By addressing the critical need for reliable internet connectivity in remote areas, the Foundation intends to empower local communities with access to greater educational resources.