MCMC TAKES INTERNET SAFETY CAMPAIGN TO GRASSROOTS IN 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, March 1 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is adopting a more community-friendly approach in implementing the 2026 Internet Safety Campaign (KIS) to ensure digital safety messages are conveyed more effectively at the grassroots level.

MCMC said this year’s key strategy has shifted towards organising community carnivals at the village, sub-district and district levels nationwide to create a relaxed and interactive learning environment.

The face-to-face approach is expected to enhance community engagement, making internet safety messages easier to understand and internalise across all segments of society. 

“Emphasis is placed on hands-on activities such as online scam simulations, interactive games and digital safety demonstrations. Among the key elements is direct guidance on activating security features such as parental control tools on devices.

“These efforts aim to empower parents and guardians to not only be aware of digital risks, but also to monitor their children’s internet usage effectively,” MCMC said in a written reply to Bernama.

In addition to on-the-ground engagement, MCMC is also collaborating strategically with social media influencers to deliver advocacy messages organically, particularly to younger audiences who are active on digital platforms.

KIS 2026, launched by Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil on Feb 8 in conjunction with Safer Internet Day, is a continuation of the KIS 1.0 initiative implemented last year, which involved more than 8,000 schools and 370,000 students.

On the campaign’s broader focus on parents and the community, MCMC said these groups form the first line of defence within the digital safety ecosystem.

“Internet safety is not solely an individual responsibility, but requires a strong support ecosystem at the family and community levels. Parents must be empowered to not only recognise risks, but also to guide the younger generation,” it said.

To further strengthen grassroots outreach, the campaign also involves collaboration with Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs), community leaders, security agencies and digital volunteers.

MCMC expressed hope that the comprehensive measures would foster safer and more responsible internet usage habits, ensuring the impact of KIS is more consistent and far-reaching nationwide.

“Focusing on parents and the community is critical as they play a key role in guiding, monitoring and shaping safe internet usage habits among children and adolescents. With a strong support ecosystem, the overall impact of the 2026 Internet Safety Campaign will be more holistic and effective,” it said.

-- BERNAMA