Kuala lumpur: Sarawak's vision of building a high-tech and advanced economy relies heavily on empowering its youth with strong English proficiency and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sarawak Deputy State Secretary (Operations) Datuk Hii Chang Kee emphasized the importance of parents and educators leveraging mass literary events to champion the state government's educational initiatives. He noted that a robust reading culture is the primary stepping stone to mastering the critical thinking and technical skills needed for Sarawak's future workforce.

"The Sarawak government has consistently encouraged our people, particularly our young people, to strengthen their English proficiency. We encourage the use of English, and we encourage STEM education as part of our aspiration to build a more advanced, competitive, and globally connected Sarawak," he said in his speech at the launch of Big Bad Wolf Books sale in Kuching.

He highlighted that accessible, large-scale book sales such as the one organised by Big Bad Wolf Books provide youth and families with reachable access to international titles. These events offer a natural and engaging avenue to develop English fluency outside formal classrooms.

At the same time, Hii cautioned about the rising reliance on digital devices, which risks diminishing active literacy. He urged parents to actively cultivate physical reading habits over passive screen consumption like social media or mobile games.

The Big Bad Wolf Books Kuching, which runs until Sept 6, features millions of affordable books, offering discounts of up to 95 per cent. The event aims to make quality reading materials accessible to people from all walks of life.