KUCHING: Cybercrime and emotional distress caused by technology misuse are becoming growing concerns that demands urgent public attention.
Department of National Unity and Integration (JPNIN) Director, Dirwana Azool, who said this explained that society today is too focused on smartphones to notice cyber threats that can affect finances, mental health, and family well-being.
“Nowadays, it’s not only homes that need to be locked. Our personal data must also be protected. Scams are getting more sophisticated, with just an IC number or a single click, savings can disappear,” he warned at the 2025 National Security and Unity Townhall Session here today.
He highlighted a viral social media case in which teenagers lost money after sharing personal information on platforms such as TikTok and WhatsApp.
Dirwana warned that public awareness of digital safety remains insufficient and stressed the need for coordinated efforts from all agencies and communities.
“Police are paid to maintain security, but we also need to fulfil our responsibilities. We should not rely solely on the authorities,” he added.
He also noted that safety is not just physical but also emotional, psychological and economic.
Online scams can cause long-term emotional stress in addition to financial loss, he pointed out.
Statistics indicate that most cybercrime victims are easily influenced by false advertisements and social media promises.
Dirwana urged the public to take an active role in educating themselves and their families about digital crimes and prevention measures.
“If we are aware, we will be safe. But if we are careless, we will continue to fall victim,” he said, emphasising the need for more awareness programmes at the grassroots level.
He also cautioned that non-physical crimes can occur 24/7 without geographical boundaries, unlike traditional crimes which are easier to detect and manage.
Dirwana called on community leaders, schools, and families to collaborate with enforcement agencies to instil early awareness among children.
