Kuala pilah: The Rural Empowerment and Community Help 2.0 (REaCH 2.0) programme, a joint effort by Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) and Yayasan Telekom Malaysia (YTM), offers a platform and training aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of rural communities through education, green technology, and sustainable development.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, project leader Associate Professor Dr. Nur Kamaliah Mustaffa stated that the programme merges academic knowledge, industry backing, and community engagement to boost the economy, social welfare, and entrepreneurial capabilities of rural populations. This initiative is a continuation of the successful REaCH 1.0, which was held in Kuala Terengganu and involved various training sessions and community projects in line with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Dr. Nur Kamaliah explained that the festival not only celebrates local cultural heritage but also provides a platform for collaboration among universities, industries, government agencies, schools, and the community, promoting community sustainability and knowledge sharing. This year's programme focuses specifically on the rural communities of Kampung Juasseh Tengah and Kampung Pasir Ambor in Kuala Pilah.
The Perpatih REaCH 2.0 Festival was inaugurated by Negeri Sembilan Education and Human Capital Committee chairman Datuk Ismail Lasim at Sekolah Kebangsaan Pasir Ambor. YTM director Ainol Shaharina Sahar and UiTM project coordinator Nur Kamaliah were also in attendance. Ainol Shaharina highlighted YTM's dedication to community development through education, technology, and sustainable practices, aiming to unlock the potential of rural areas.
The programme introduced several projects to the communities, such as the Eco SmartShroom Community Garden, Solar Systems, Smart Classrooms, Rainwater Harvesting Systems (SPAH), 3R Stations, and the E-Learn Lounge, integrating green technology into the daily lives of rural residents. Additionally, YTM provided RM60,000 in entrepreneurship grants to 20 local entrepreneurs, supporting the growth of micro-businesses and social enterprises.
Ismail emphasized that the success of REaCH 2.0 underscores the positive effects of collaborations between the public sector, academia, and industry in uplifting communities. He stressed the need to expand such initiatives to additional villages to ensure inclusive development.