Financial Literacy, Cybersecurity Key To Protect Rural Communities - Affin

SERIAN, June 27 (Bernama) -- Financial literacy and cybersecurity awareness must be strengthened, particularly among rural communities, to help people make better financial decisions and protect themselves from increasingly prevalent scams and cybercrime, said Affin Bank Bhd Banking Director for Sarawak Victor Liew Wui Tak. 

He said efforts to expand financial education at the grassroots level are crucial as the use of digital services and online transactions continues to grow, including in rural areas. 

“Financial literacy and cybersecurity awareness are becoming increasingly important in today’s digital world. 

“We believe education is the first step in helping people make better financial decisions and safeguard themselves against fraud and cyber threats,” he told reporters when met at the Ooohaa Gawai Dayak Affin 2026 programme in Kampung Mujat here today. 

The programme, organised by the Affin Group in collaboration with the Sarawak Information Department (JAPEN), brought together about 500 participants comprising residents and media representatives in conjunction with the closing of the Gawai Day celebrations. 

Liew said collaboration with strategic partners, including the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC), has enabled information on financial management and digital security to be shared in a more accessible and practical manner to the community. 

Among the programme’s main highlights was a financial literacy session focusing on scam prevention, prudent money management and responsible financial planning. 

The programme also featured various cultural segments organised by residents of Kampung Mujat from the Bidayuh Bukar Sadong sub-ethnic group, including demonstrations of traditional food preparation, dance performances and exhibitions of traditional attire as part of efforts to promote local cultural heritage. 

-- BERNAMA