CelcomDigi team up with Meta, Comms Ministry for new wave of scam awareness creators

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – A new batch of 35 young changemakers and content creators has begun training to lead online safety advocacy under the Online Safety IRL: Scam Edition fellowship programme, which aims to strengthen public awareness around scam prevention.

The initiative is jointly organised by the Ministry of Communications, CelcomDigi Berhad, Meta Platforms, Inc. and Ratio:Cause, with Tonton as media partner. It is intended to grow a network of community-based advocates capable of reaching millions of Malaysians through educational content and grassroots engagement.

This second edition builds on the programme’s earlier run, which reached more than 2.8 million people through digital safety messaging. The latest cohort will focus specifically on financial scams, including those fuelled by AI technologies, and will undergo expert-led masterclasses, field immersions, mentorship and outreach activities.

Minister of Communications, YB Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said, “Scams affect everyone, and protecting Malaysians requires us all to work together. This programme shows what’s possible when government, industry, and communities unite to build awareness and strengthen online safety for all.”

Meanwhile, Philip Ling, head of sustainability at CelcomDigi, said, “Content creators and youth leaders are powerful changemakers with their ability to reach and influence communities both online and offline. We have seen the impact driven by peer-led advocacy in shaping how Malaysians navigate the digital world.”

He added, “Through Online Safety IRL, we are helping to grow a dynamic network of advocates who can continue to spark conversations, shift behaviours, and make the internet safer for everyone. CelcomDigi remains committed to fostering a safer and more secure digital environment for all. We will continue to develop strategic partnerships to build a trusted digital society.”

Daniel Lim, head of public policy for Malaysia and Brunei at Meta, commented, “Protecting people online is a collective effort, and we strive to equip the next generation with the skills and awareness they need to navigate online spaces confidently. Through the Online Safety IRL programme, we’re proud to support young leaders and creators as they champion scam awareness and inspire safer online behaviour in their communities. Together with our partners, we’re building a more secure and informed digital future for all Malaysians.”

On the other hand, New Su Shern, executive director at Ratio:Cause, noted, “The success of our first edition proved to us how powerful collaboration can be when different stakeholders come together with purpose. This programme has never been just about awareness, it’s about changing how Malaysians think, act and look out for one another online. This year, we’re expanding that impact even further, reaching more people across the country through a more diverse group of creators and youth fellows. Together with the Ministry of Communications, Meta, CelcomDigi and Tonton, we’re making scam resilience not just a campaign, but a nationwide movement powered by voices of our own communities.”

The programme runs two fellowship tracks: a three-month pathway for content creators which provides a RM8,000 grant, expert masterclasses, and networking opportunities; and a six-month pathway for youths featuring mentoring, advocacy training, and a hands-on community project.

As part of the launch, Meta introduced its scam awareness game ‘Is This Legit?’ which is now available in Bahasa Malaysia. The interactive game is designed to help users recognise and avoid common scams through creative learning elements, and can be accessed via my.isthislegit.eyeyah.com.