KOTA SAMARAHAN: University students in Sarawak must sharpen their financial skills to navigate the growing risks of online banking, e-wallets and virtual investments.
UNIMAS vice-chancellor Prof Dr Ahmad Hata Rasit, at the Sarawak Graduate Financial Convention 2025, said that the digital economy is evolving rapidly, with financial transactions now happening in real time.
“Students must not only manage money effectively but also assess risks wisely and make ethical financial decisions,” he said in his opening speech, read by Prof Dr Siti Noor Linda Taib at UNIMAS yesterday (Nov 19).
He added that in this era, money no longer moves physically but through e-wallets, online banking, digital investments and virtual financial assets.
“These conveniences open up vast opportunities.
“But at the same time, they heighten risks such as fraud, data breaches, financial scams, mis-selling and poor financial management,” he cautioned.
Ahmad Hata highlighted that the initiative aligns with the National Strategy for Financial Literacy 2.0 (NS2) 2026-2030, which focuses on enhancing financial risk management, promoting smart decision-making, creating safe digital financial environments and empowering young people early.
He added that UNIMAS aims to produce graduates who are academically excellent, financially disciplined and risk-aware.
“This convention provides a platform for students to learn from experts, understand national financial policies and prepare for responsible economic decision-making,” he said.
The event also reflects UNIMAS’ theme, “Community Driven University for a Sustainable World,” emphasising industry collaboration to equip students with practical skills and financial literacy.
The convention, themed “Money and Risk in the Digital Era: Think Before You Click,” was jointly organised by Prudential Assurance Malaysia Berhad, Bank Negara Malaysia and UNIMAS to strengthen financial literacy among graduates.
The event also saw the presence of Datuk Francis Harden Hollis, Deputy Minister II of the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Sarawak, signalling strong government support for talent development and youth economic well-being.
