BETONG: Community vigilance and education remain the strongest line of defence against scams and fraud in the digital era.
Head of the Police’s Commercial Crime Division here, Inspector Ahmad Fahmi Khufadli, made this clear at the start of a workshop on cybercrime and the usage of artificial intelligence (AI) in politics, the latter of which was conducted by trainer, Jacqueline David.
The July 9-10 workshop, organised by the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Women’s Wing here under the leadership of Umang Nangku Jabu in collaboration with the Iban Women Charitable Trust (IWCT), drew over 50 participants from the Layar constituency.
Ahmad Fahmi’s session was part of a larger initiative to empower the public with technological literacy and digital safety, ensuring the Betong community stays one step ahead of cybercriminals.
His session delivered an eye-opening presentation on the surge of scam-related activities that have plagued the country.
At the same time, he detailed the increasingly sophisticated methods used by scammers to deceive victims, including impersonation calls, fake investment platforms, and phishing tactics aimed at stealing personal and banking information.
Umang believed the participants would learn much on topics discussed at the workshop.
“I thank everyone of you for taking your time to attend to these important topics which will benefit everyone of you,” she said at the launching of the workshop.
“We want to live in a safe community with everyone knowing how to tackle such problems. If you are unsure about what comes to you in the form of suspected scams, please do not hesitate to reach out to others for help.
“As for AI in politics, this is another crucial topic we can all learn from. AI has its good and bad points.
“If the purpose is for the good, then it is very beneficial; if it’s bad, please avoid that at all costs, because getting involved in the wrong usage of AI can land you in trouble with the law.”
Participants at the workshop were receptive to the information they obtained.
Tuai Rumah Lipa Nyawai, 60, said he could grasp about 80 per cent of the topics presented.
“If possible, we would like to have more thorough knowledge on laws governing AI,” he said.
“As for the rest of the topics, of course they are relevant for our longhouse residents and will be very beneficial for them.”
Bachelor of Education (Hons) student, Fathin Fathnin Mohamad Radzif, 22, who hails from Kampung Masjid here, said she obtained a lot of information about scams.
As for Mardson Sanggin Maoh, 32, Youth Chief of PBB Padeh Tengah, highlighting the proper usage of AI was very beneficial for everyone.
“If your intention is bad, and you mask yourself behind AI, be ready to face the music under the law if it is found that your allegations are untrue.
“I am also happy that our women in the longhouse have a better understanding and know how to use ChatGPT now,” he said.
For Betong District Council’s Deputy Chairman, Horace Entoi, the workshop was a proactive step to equipping party members with the latest technological knowledge, especially in navigating the increasingly complex challenges of the digital age.
“Such initiatives reflect PBB’s commitment to keeping its members up to date with technological advancements while raising awareness about the risks of fraud in the digital world,” he said.
