Upon receiving the news that he would be required to attend an online admission interview for Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI), he knew immediately that he'd need to go extreme lengths to ensure that the interview goes smoothly without any setbacks. Knowing that getting a decent internet connection in his area would be quite an issue, he was determined to travel and hike up the hill of Bukit Kelingkang, where the signal is much stronger, even if it would take two hours... which he did.
Francis's father, Sa Ujom had even built a small hut for the sake of his comfort during the interview, equipped with a bemban mat, a Pua Kumbu backdrop and a chair. According to his brother Mario, their longhouse Rumah Suing in Teberu, Ulu Kemalih is already equipped with the WiFi Sarawak Linking Urban, Rural and Nation (Saluran) network. However, the signal is never strong enough for online meetings as they typically require more data use.
Recalling on the day of the online interview, Francis said he was bitten by leeches throughout the entire process, and his pants had gotten wet due to the heavy rain, yet he persisted. "The results of the interview are expected to be out in two weeks. I am 70% confident that I will pass," Francis added.
Much like the legendary Veveonah's story, who gained great public interest over her determination in attending online classes despite the internet inaccessibility, Francis tells a similar sad reality about living in the rural parts of Malaysia.
As much as it is inspiring to see the youth going out of their ways to achieve better access to education, such access should have e already been given to them by relevant authorities in the first place.
Source: Mario Sa
