information needs, ICT applications, rural communities, quality of life, portal
Abstract
Accessing required information via the Internet is becoming significant to improve the quality of life. The purpose of this study is to identify the information needs of rural communities. Fieldworks were carried out involving surveys, interviews and observations. The findings show that the types of information requested by these communities include information about business, career opportunity, education, health and ICT. Regardless of their economic sectors, the information needs can be categorized into two: (i) in association with economic activities; and (ii) in relation with daily life. This information can be included in a portal especially designed for the people from different economic sectors to cater their needs.
