KUCHING: Cybercrime losses in Sarawak reached RM289.2 million involving 8,576 cases recorded between 2024 and September 2026.

Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah said Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) statistics highlight the critical need to heighten digital safety awareness and literacy among the public.

“These figures are deeply concerning as online crime not only causes financial loss, but can also disrupt an individual's psychosocial stability and family well-being,” she said.

She said this when delivering her ministerial winding-up speech at the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting here on Tuesday.

According to her, the ministry has executed several initiatives to increase public awareness regarding online scam threats, including the Anti-Scam Literacy Course held in Sibu in June 2026.

Additionally, she noted that the Program Wacana Bestari: Klik Bijak, Waspada Jenayah Siber was conducted in Miri in August and Kuching in September this year.

She explained that a total of 438 participants gained exposure through the program, which covered cybercrime modi operandi, preventive measures, personal data protection, as well as reporting and assistance channels.

“The ministry will continue to reinforce digital safety literacy to boost the community's resilience against cybercrime threats, thereby reducing the risk of falling victim to scams,” she elaborated. — UKASnews

Prepared by: Eisner Nala
Photos: George S. Embie
Translator: Ryan Lim