SERIAN: Financial literacy and cybersecurity awareness should go hand in hand as more rural communities embrace digital banking and online financial services.
Banking director of Affin Bank Berhad Sarawak, Victor Liew Wui Tak said educating the public remained the first step towards helping them make informed financial decisions while protecting themselves against online scams and cyber threats.
“As more people adopt digital financial services, it is important that they understand how to manage their finances wisely and use these services safely and responsibly,” he said.
He told the media this during the Affin OoHaa Gawai Dayak 2026 programme at Kampung Mujat longhouse here yesterday (June 27).
Organised in collaboration with the Sarawak Information Department (JaPen), the Affin OoHaa Gawai Dayak 2026 programme attracted about 500 participants, including media representatives and residents of Kampung Mujat, for the closing Gawai Dayak celebration.
Liew said the programme formed part of the bank’s efforts to strengthen engagement with rural communities by combining financial education with community activities and cultural appreciation.
He said Kampung Mujat was chosen to reflect the bank’s commitment to supporting community development through initiatives that were meaningful and relevant to local residents.
“We believe every community has its own strengths and uniqueness. By appreciating local culture, we are not only celebrating heritage but also building stronger relationships with the communities we serve,” he added.
He said Affin Bank cooperated with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) to deliver practical and easy-to-understand information on financial management and digital security.
He noted that direct engagement with the community allowed the bank to address questions, improve public understanding and build confidence in using digital financial services securely.
Additionally, Liew acknowledged the role of the media in raising public awareness on financial literacy, cybersecurity and cultural appreciation.
He expressed hope that participants would leave the programme with better knowledge of financial management, greater awareness of digital safety and the confidence to make full use of available financial services.
“As a financial institution, Affin remains committed to supporting initiatives that create lasting benefits for communities and contribute to sustainable community development,” he added.
During the event, Affin also presented a corporate social responsibility (CSR) contribution to Kampung Mujat to support the installation of a solar power system in the village, as well as other community initiatives.
