Kuala lumpur: 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.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Liew emphasized the importance of education as a foundational step in empowering individuals to make informed financial decisions and defend against fraud and cyber threats. He shared these insights with reporters at the Ooohaa Gawai Dayak Affin 2026 programme held in Kampung Mujat.

The programme, organised by the Affin Group in collaboration with the Sarawak Information Department (JAPEN), attracted about 500 participants, including residents and media representatives, as part of the Gawai Day celebrations. This initiative underscores the importance of grassroots-level education in enhancing financial literacy and cybersecurity awareness among rural communities.

Liew highlighted the collaboration with strategic partners such as the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC), which has facilitated the dissemination of information on financial management and digital security in an accessible and practical manner.

One of the main highlights of the programme was a financial literacy session that focused on scam prevention, prudent money management, and responsible financial planning. The event also included cultural segments organized by the Bidayuh Bukar Sadong sub-ethnic group residents of Kampung Mujat, featuring traditional food preparation demonstrations, dance performances, and exhibitions of traditional attire to promote local cultural heritage.