HKI 2026: Key Instrument To Strengthening Family Digital Defences

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 8 (Bernama) -- The Safer Internet Day 2026 (HKI) today has emerged as an important instrument in strengthening public awareness of digital safety, particularly in addressing increasingly complex cyber threats amid the rapid advancement of technology.

A Bernama survey found that visitors described the initiative as an effective medium not only for technical exposure but also for enhancing user awareness to remain vigilant and avoid complacency in the use of borderless digital gadgets.

Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) Language executive Norafidah Abd Jamil, 45, said the programme’s content, delivered interactively through information booths and various light activities, including those for children, made messages on cyber safety easier to understand.

“The programme is very engaging because the content is concise and relaxed, yet it creates a strong impact. It teaches us that if underage children make mistakes, parents must take responsibility and sit with them to correct them,” she told Bernama.

The mother of six said the HKI programme also helped her gain a deeper understanding of the risks of online scams, thereby increasing her level of alertness in protecting her family’s personal information.

Echoing similar views, housewife Shalini Guanasekaran, 39, described the family-friendly programme as a “knowledge hub”, particularly for parents who are less proficient technically, as practical guidance, such as methods to block inappropriate content and control screen time, was demonstrated.

“Children nowadays are easily influenced and may misuse technology. I hope that programmes like this will be organised more frequently and, if possible, brought to schools so that awareness can begin at an early stage.

“Although I had already started seeking information on my own, the input from this SID celebration has further strengthened my understanding of the importance of control and limits on mobile phone usage among children,” she said.

For Nurul Syahida Annuar, 22, from Bahau, Negeri Sembilan, the programme provided meaningful exposure to young people on the importance of protecting privacy in the digital world.

“As a generation that is constantly using gadgets, information on account security and risks on social media is very important so that we are not easily deceived,” she said.

With the theme “Smart Technology, Safe Choices: Safe and Responsible Use of AI”, HKI 2026 emphasises the importance of making wise digital choices in harnessing technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in line with the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

-- BERNAMA