Malaysia lost RM54 billion to scams in 2024 and the rise of AI is making them harder than ever to spot. Deepfakes, voice cloning and slick fake investment platforms are deceiving even the savviest Malaysians.
To tackle this growing threat, Online Safety IRL is calling for new fellows to join its nationwide campaign against AI-driven financial scams. (2025 Youths IRL and Creators IRL fellows pictured above.)
Backed by the Communications Ministry, Meta, CelcomDigi, Tonton, and Ratio:Cause, Online Safety IRL is rallying Malaysians to rethink how they engage online and build safer digital habits. Now in its second year, the campaign is going beyond awareness to empower creators and youths to take an active role in scam-proofing the nation.
Creators IRL: Turning Influence into action
This three-month fellowship is tailored for content creators with platforms that reach thousands. Fellows will receive:
RM8,000 grant to fund scam awareness content
Expert masterclasses on scam psychology, AI fraud tactics and ethical storytelling
Exclusive networking opportunities with corporate partners, government agencies and peers
Starting at the end of October, the fellowship includes field visits to uncover the real-world impact of scams. Fellows will then create original content series designed to spark national dialogue on online safety.
Youths IRL: Training tomorrow’s changemakers
The six-month Youths IRL programme is open to Malaysians aged 18–25 who want to champion scam awareness in their communities. Participants will gain:
Mentorship from programme partners
Hybrid masterclasses with industry experts
Hands-on collaboration to design community projects
Beginning in October, fellows will work closely with mentors and peers to develop initiatives launching in 2026 - building leadership skills and joining a nationwide network of digital safety advocates.
Apply today
Applications for Youths IRL are open until Oct 3, 2025 and Creators IRL till Oct 5, 2025. Don’t miss the chance to be part of a national movement to safeguard Malaysia’s digital future.
For more information and to apply, visit onlinesafetyirl.com. Got questions? Email [email protected].
This S.A.F.E. Internet Series is in collaboration with CelcomDigi.
The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.
