The development, functions, and challenges of Internet centres before and during the covid-19 Pandemic era: A case study on the northwest Coast of Sabah

Halina Sendera Mohd Yakin and Junaidah Januin (2024) The development, functions, and challenges of Internet centres before and during the covid-19 Pandemic era: A case study on the northwest Coast of Sabah. International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences, 14 (5). pp. 1-18. ISSN 2222-6990

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Abstract

This study thoroughly examines the development and advancement of Internet centres in Malaysia, with a specific focus on the Northwest Coast of Sabah and their roles and challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Utilising a comprehensive mixed-methods research approach, including participatory observation, text analysis, questionnaires, and in-depth interviews, the research engaged 13 informants and 133 diverse respondents. The compelling findings clearly show that Malaysia's Internet centres, established through long-term government plans in collaboration with various entities, were well-established before the pandemic and effectively achieved their intended objectives. However, critical issues such as limited awareness of their presence and remote locations have significantly hindered their effectiveness as practical communication tools and drivers of community socioeconomic development. During the pandemic, these centres struggled to fulfil their role as providers of free internet services and devices, greatly impacting residents who depend on them for virtual activities. The study conclusively presents strong recommendations aimed at optimizing digital communication and Internet centres to enhance rural community socioeconomic development and digital integration into the national landscape.

Item Type:	Article
Keyword:	: Internet Centres, COVID-19 Pandemic, Development, Functions, Challenges, Sabah
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > HD28-9999 Industries. Land use. Labor > HD2350.8-2356 Large industry. Factory system. Big business > HD2709-2930.7 Corporations Including international business enterprises, diversification, industrial concentration, public utilities Q Science > QA Mathematics > QA1-939 Mathematics > QA71-90 Instruments and machines > QA75-76.95 Calculating machines
Department:	CENTRE > Centre for the Promotion of Knowledge and Language Learning
Depositing User:	ABDULLAH BIN SABUDIN -
Date Deposited:	31 Jul 2024 12:17
Last Modified:	31 Jul 2024 12:17
URI:	https://eprints.ums.edu.my/id/eprint/39391

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