Semenyih, 25 September 2025 – The University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM), in collaboration with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), proudly hosted the Internet Safety Campaign on campus. UNM is the first private university in Malaysia to participate in this nationwide movement, underscoring its commitment to raising awareness about internet safety and cyberbullying.
The campaign carried a simple but powerful message: online safety is not just about protecting ourselves but it is also about protecting others. Anyone can fall victim to scams or harassment, but we must also reflect on whether our own actions could cause harm.
Staying Safe in a Digital World
The event opened with a welcome speech by Prof. Sandy Loh, Chair of the Organisation for Women in Science (OWIS) Malaysia. She reminded participants that in today’s fast-paced digital era, safeguarding our online presence requires deliberate effort and constant awareness.
Spotlight on Scams and Fake News
A presentation by MCMC officers, Yang Berusaha Hareeza Izzureen Ghazali, Amni Safian, Nurul Amira Mat Ariffin, Suzila Idayu Yaacob, and Norlila Suhaili took participants through the most common online threats.
Students learned how to recognise:
The session also raised awareness about the dangers of fake news and emphasised the importance of fact-checking before sharing information.
Understanding Cyberbullying
The MCMC team also addressed the different forms of cyberbullying, including doxing and online harassment, highlighting the severe emotional toll victims often endure. Real-life case studies made the issue more relatable and impactful, resonating strongly with the student audience.
Learning Through Play
To reinforce the lessons, MCMC introduced station-based games that encouraged students to test their knowledge in fun, interactive ways. The hands-on approach helped participants engage more deeply and fostered collaboration among peers.
Research Insights: Mental Health at Stake
The campaign concluded with a talk by Dr. Jaya Kumar Karunaghar from UNM’s School of Psychology, titled “Digital Shadows: Hidden Health Risks of Cyberbullying.”
Drawing on research including studies on female gamers in male-dominated spaces, Dr. Jaya shed light on the psychological impact of online harassment. The session closed with an open discussion, where participants proposed strategies to reduce cyberbullying and foster healthier digital communities.
Towards a Safer Digital Community
The campaign proved to be both educational and inspiring, reminding all attendees that internet safety is a shared responsibility. By protecting ourselves, supporting others, and being mindful of our digital behaviour, UNM students and staff can contribute to a more responsible online culture.
This initiative formed part of a cross-campus Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) project, led by Dr. New Siu Yee from the School of Pharmacy and funded by Student Experience.
Posted on 1st October 2025