Rembau: Rural libraries nationwide will be equipped with a digital system starting next year, in line with efforts to upgrade services and provide more comfortable facilities for the community. National Library of Malaysia (PNM) director-general Edy Irwan Zulkafli announced that 506 rural libraries will be upgraded, focusing on providing information and communication technology (ICT) facilities, internet access, high-speed WiFi services, and computer facilities.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Edy Irwan Zulkafli emphasized the need for infrastructure improvements as most rural libraries currently focus on traditional services such as reference and lending of reading materials. In line with current trends, an allocation of RM1.2 million has been requested from the federal government to upgrade village libraries for 2026. He spoke about this initiative at the handover of the MADANI Adopted School project 2025 launching ceremony at SJK (C) Yuk Hua, attended by Rembau district education officer Mazlan Abdullah and SJK (C) Yuk Hua headmaster Wong Lee Feen.
The upgrades aim to enable the community, especially those in rural areas, to access information and knowledge more widely, easily, and comfortably. Commenting on the MADANI Adopted School initiative, Edy Irwan noted that it serves as an educational community hub, particularly in rural areas, and is not merely a form of physical assistance but also a catalyst for shaping students' character.
Edy Irwan, originally from Kampung Senama, Rembau, expressed pride in selecting the school as PNM's MADANI Adopted School 2025, highlighting the opportunity it provides him to give back to his hometown. The RM100,000 allocation, channelled through the school's Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), supports various development and learning initiatives. These include improvements to school infrastructure and facilities, such as air conditioning for the school resource centre, installation of Smart Boards, and a library automation system.
The funds were also utilized to upgrade the teachers' room, science laboratory, cafeteria, and classrooms and implement academic guidance and student development programmes like Smart Kids ICT Explorer and the Arch By The River benchmarking programme. Edy Irwan expressed hope that the upgrades would provide greater comfort for students, aiding in their focus on studies and supporting educators in delivering quality educational services.